Relationship of hyperextended gait pattern of chondromalacia patellae.

A specific hyperextended gait pattern is seen in patients with chondromalacia patellae. A new program designed to correct this gait impairment was evaluated by a clinical study. The findings of the study suggest a direct relationship between the amount of hyperextension and clinical severity of symptoms. When the patient's gait deviation is corrected, the symptoms of pain and effusion are alleviated.