Knee clicking or popping is common and may be due to one of several causes. But, first, you must determine whether clicking or popping is painful. Generally, clicking and pain in the knee mean a more concerning problem, while an absence of pain suggests a harmless cause. So, what causes knee clicking or popping, and when should you see a doctor?
Most common cause of knee clicking or popping
Believe it or not, the most common cause of knee clicking is not related to damage to the knee. Your knee consists of a large hinge joint lubricated by synovial fluid. Sometimes, gas bubbles can form in the synovial fluid. When the knee bends and straightens, these bubbles burst, leading to a clicking or popping sound. You get this same sensation when you click your knuckles or hear a click with a back stretch. Contrary to popular opinion, repeated clicking or popping due to bursting gas bubbles does not cause damage to the joint and will not increase the risk of arthritis.
Other causes of knee clicking
Alternatively, clicking or popping can be due to other causes – some more concerning than others.
Patellofemoral pain or chondromalacia patellae
Often called runner’s knee, this condition presents as pain in the front of the knee. However, many people also experience clicking, popping, or cracking. We think that irritation of the patellofemoral joint occurs because of poor tracking of the patella, overuse of the joint from excessive cycling or running, or a fall onto the kneecap.
Tendon snapping
Swelling of the tendons in the knee can cause clicking or snapping. The most common tendon is the iliotibial band, which runs from the hip to the knee outside. When the tendon is swollen, it rubs against the knee, causing a pop below the skin. If the knee is also painful, we call this condition iliotibial band syndrome.
Other tendons that click or snap include the medial hamstring tendons at the back of the knee.
Knee Plica
Plica is a thickening of normal synovial tissue in the knee joint. These thickenings develop in children but disappear in adults. Sometimes, plica becomes inflamed, leading to the catching of the tissue in the knee joint with bending and straightening of the knee.
An inflamed knee plica sometimes causes pain, clicking, or catching. Generally, symptoms occur on the inside of the kneecap.
Torn meniscus
Menisci provide cushioning and help to protect the joint. A torn meniscus may cause a mechanical click or catch as the knee moves back and forth. Sometimes, the menisci can get caught, resulting in popping or locking.
Knee arthritis
Degeneration of the articular cartilage in the knee is known as osteoarthritis. In some cases, uneven cartilage surfaces can cause noise with movement.
When to see a doctor about knee clicking
Generally, we recommend you see a doctor if you get clicking and pain in the knee. Your doctor will assess your knee and make a diagnosis. Also, symptoms such as popping or locking should be seen by a doctor even without pain. In some cases, these mechanical symptoms could be an early warning sign of impending knee damage. Early treatment with weight loss, knee strengthening, and orthotics can stop this progression. Treatment is more effective if directed to a specific diagnosis.
Frequently asked questions about knee clicking or popping
How do I get my knee to stop clicking while walking?
First, you need to get a specific diagnosis, so we suggest you see a doctor. Treatment options for causes such as patellofemoral pain or knee arthritis include knee strengthening exercises (such as squats, lunges, and crab walks with a theraband), proper footwear and orthotics, soft tissue massage with a foam roller, and a knee brace. Options for a knee brace include a simple knee sleeve or a more bulky knee brace with kneecap support.
Is cracking your knee terrible for you?
Generally, most cracking cases are related to burst gas bubbles and are not pathological. Frequent cracking does not lead to more knee joint damage.
Is knee clicking a sign of arthritis?
While cracking could be a sign of arthritis, most cases of knee cracking are not due to knee damage or arthritis.
Final word from Sportdoctorlondon about knee clicking or popping
Overall, knee popping or clicking is not a sign of joint damage. However, if you experience clicking with pain, we suggest you see your doctor to get a specific diagnosis and start targeted treatment to avoid more damage.
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