Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (Chondromalacia), a done deal?

[Geenie]

Dear members of the board, I would like to ask for your guidance on the following matter:

Historically I have always had relatively "weak knees". In the past, when I played high-impact sports for too long, or ignored the "three too's" of running, my knees would swell up a bit underneath the patella and I would be in pain.

Now that I have my eyes set on joining the service and giving SFAS a shot, I am dedicated to building up my legs and stabilizing my knees. I understand they will take a beating if I sign up and make it.
I have recently been diagnosed with Chondromalacia Patellae / Patellofrontal Pain Syndrome by an orthopedic doctor. I can confirm that, at the moment, there is some crepitus in my knees. I have no way of comparing it, so I can't say whether it's severe or not.

I checked AR 40-501, and Chondromalacia is listed as a disqualifying condition. After reviewing relevant information, however, my impression is that it is only disqualifying if it is a chronic issue, affecting one's ability to perform permanently.
Thus far I never felt like I had *chronic* knee troubles. My notion was simply that my legs were weak and every time I overdid the training I would have trouble.

I've searched this board and others for people who had similar issues and worked through it prior to trying out for SOF. Unfortunately I was not able to find much information. Most posts were made by people who were on the tail-end of their career, or not interested in military service.
I would therefore like to resurrect this thread to ask the members of this board what their experience is with this condition. Can it be rectified to a point where it is a non-issue? Have you known people who suffered from this condition but were able to overcome it through training or other measures?

I hope to be in a position where I can do a more significant amount of running, and begin rucking, in about 6 months. So far my action plan involves:

- Get an MRI to determine the degree of damage and overall condition of my knees and cartilage. Adjust my training plan and expectations to the results.

- Start taking 1500 mg of Glucosamine and 1200 mg of Chondroitin daily for the next 6 weeks. I will then check for results and perhaps continue taking Glucosamine (after consulting with an MD).

- Continue slowly(!) building up the muscles in my legs, especially the quads and hams.

- I will avoid running and doing squats in the near future, instead focusing on isometric exercises and things like cycling and swimming.

- If necessary, explore other options, such as prolotherapy.


I would be grateful for any advice or opinions. The doctors have not been very helpful and it is important for me to realistic idea of what I am dealing with.

Thank you.