A high-riding patella is called patella alta, and can be associated with instability of the patella, as it is not well-engaged in the trochlear sulcus with the knee near full extension (straight). A low-riding patella is called patella baja. - http://genufix.com/patella_problems1.htm

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For the teenager with chondromalacia, the objective of treatment is to restore normal patella alignment with the help of exercises - http://www.orthoseek.com/articles/chondromp.html

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With the patient in the seated position with the knees at the edge of the examining table, assessment of the relative height of the patellae may reveal patella alta or patella baja - http://www.med.nyu.edu/pmr/residency/resources/general MSK a...