Terrible stiff knee, constantly popping & pressure while walking, aching and burning in knee. could chondromalacia be getting worse? heat unhelpful

Patellofemoral pain: Given your age and gender I suspect pain may be coming from around your kneecap or patellofemoral joint. This is more common in females and has a clear assoc w/ hip/quadriceps/core weakness, hamstring tightness, sometimes abnormal alignment. Mainstay of treatment is physical therapy/home exercises to correct abnormal mechanics and optimize strength. See knee specialist to coordinate care.

PatellofemoralSyndro: You should see OrthopedicSurgeon.You may have Patellofemoral Syndrome common among teenagers may be due to overuse injury,excess weight,knee cap that is not properly aligned or changes under the kneecap. Knee pain may come,sitting with bent knees,squatting,jumping or coming down stairs.The specialist will take History and do examination&xray.MRI Treatment Physicall Therapy/Taping/Brace&rarely surg