Chondromalacia is the softening of cartilage that exists inside the joints. Normally this cartilage acts as a cushion that allows the bones to easily slide over one another. As the cartilage softens and weakens, areas develop that allow the bones to rub together and cause pain. The knee is the most common joint to be affected. Several conditions increase the risk of development of chondromalacia. They include trauma, overuse, infections, rheumatoid arthritis, meniscus injuries and steroid injections in the joint.