Popping or clicking sound in knee – Causes, Diagnosis & Treatment

Causes:

• Meniscus Tear: Tears in the meniscus, the cartilage that cushions the knee joint, are a common cause of popping or clicking, often accompanied by pain and swelling.
• Ligament Injury: Tears or sprains of the ligaments in the knee, such as the ACL or MCL, can cause popping or clicking, along with pain and instability.
• Chondromalacia Patella: A condition where the cartilage under the kneecap softens and breaks down, leading to pain and a grinding or popping sensation.
• Osteoarthritis: The breakdown of cartilage in the knee joint can cause popping, clicking, pain, and stiffness.
• Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursae (fluid-filled sacs) in the knee can sometimes cause a snapping or popping sound.
• Iliotibial (IT) Band Syndrome: Tightness in the IT band, which runs along the outside of the thigh, can cause a popping or snapping sound as it moves over the bony prominence of the knee.
• Loose Bodies: Small pieces of cartilage or bone that break off within the knee joint can cause popping, clicking, or locking.

Diagnosis:

• Physical Exam: Assessing range of motion, tenderness, swelling, and stability of the knee joint. The doctor will also listen for specific sounds during knee movement.
• Patient History: Gathering information about the onset, duration, nature of the popping or clicking, any other symptoms, and relevant medical history, including any injuries.
• Imaging:
  • X-rays: To rule out fractures or arthritis.
  • MRI: May be used to visualize soft tissues like ligaments, tendons, and cartilage, to identify meniscus tears or other internal derangements.

Treatment:

• Rest: Avoiding activities that aggravate the knee.
• Pain Relief: Over-the-counter or prescription pain medication.
• Ice/Heat: Applying ice or heat to the affected area.
• Physical Therapy: Exercises to improve strength, flexibility, and range of motion.
• Knee Brace: To provide support and stability to the knee.
• Injections: Corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation, or hyaluronic acid injections to lubricate the joint.
• Surgery: May be necessary in some cases, such as for severe meniscus tears, ligament tears, or loose bodies.

Important Considerations:

• Consult a healthcare professional if the popping or clicking in your knee is accompanied by pain, swelling, instability, or limited range of motion. Don’t delay seeking medical advice.
• While a painless pop or click in the knee may not always be a cause for concern, it’s still a good idea to mention it to your doctor during a routine check-up. They can assess your knee and determine if any further evaluation is needed.