20+ years ago, I broke my left leg and was in a full leg cast then a half leg cast which basically immobilized my knee for 12 weeks. I had an MRI for a torn meniscus 2 years ago which also showed severe diffuse cartilage loss in the patellofemoral compartment. Could this be attributed in some part to the immobilization of the knee all those years ago?
Hello, Immobilization of knee in long leg cast leads to knee stiffness and not cartilage damage to patellofemoral joint. Damage may be due to initial trauma or may be due to age related degenerative changes in patellofemoral joint. If there is pain anteriorly on knee you should avoid squatting and crossed leg sitting.  Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.