Do you hear a popping noise when you move your knee? If so, you’re not alone. Many people experience this phenomenon, which is known as knee popping. While it can be alarming, in most cases it is nothing to worry about. In this blog post, we will explore the causes of knee popping and discuss treatment options. Keep reading to learn more!
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What is Popping of Knee?
The popping of the knee is a condition in which there is a popping sound from the knee joint when it is moved. This may be accompanied by pain and swelling. It is a condition that can be caused by several factors. It is important to see a doctor if you experience this symptom, as it may be a sign of a more serious condition.
What Are Its Causes?
There are several potential causes of knee popping. They are as follows:
Gas Bubbles
When you hear a “popping” noise coming from your knee, it’s usually the result of gas bubbles being released from the joint. This is called crepitus and is nothing to be concerned about. Just like when you crack your knuckles, the popping noise is due to a change in pressure within the joint that causes gas bubbles to be released. However, if the popping is accompanied by pain, swelling, or instability
Arthritis
Arthritis can cause the bones in the knee to rub together, which may result in a popping sensation. For instance, osteoarthritis, the most common type of arthritis, breaks down the cartilage that cushions the knee joint. Rheumatoid arthritis is another type of arthritis that can damage the knee joint.
Tendonitis
Tendonitis is the inflammation of a tendon. The tendons are the tissues that connect muscle to bone. When the tendon becomes inflamed, it can cause pain and a popping sensation in the knee.
Bursitis
Bursitis is the inflammation of a bursa. The bursa is a fluid-filled sac that acts as a cushion between bones, muscles, and tendons. When the bursa becomes inflamed, it can cause pain and a popping sensation in the knee.
Baker’s cyst
A Baker’s cyst is a fluid-filled sac that forms behind the knee. It can cause the knee to feel stiff and pop when moved. For instance , you may feel a pop when you straighten your leg after sitting with your knees bent for a long time Most Baker’s cysts do not require treatment. However, if the cyst is large and causing pain, your doctor may drain it.
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is a condition that causes the cartilage in your joints to break down. This can lead to pain, stiffness, and popping sensations in the affected joint. Treatment for osteoarthritis typically involves pain relief and exercises that improve the range of motion.
Ligament tear
A ligament is a band of tissue that connects bones to one another. A ligament tear can cause the knee to feel unstable and pop when moved. Treatment for a ligament tear typically involves rest, ice, and physical therapy.
Meniscus tear
The meniscus is a cushion of cartilage that sits between the bones in the knee. A meniscus tear can cause the knee to feel stiff and pop when moved. Treatment for a meniscus tear typically involves rest, ice, and physical therapy. Surgery may also be necessary in some cases.
Patellar subluxation
Patellar subluxation is a condition that causes the kneecap to slip out of place. This can lead to pain, popping, and clicking sensations in the knee. It can be treated with the help of physical therapy and exercises that improve the strength and flexibility of the muscles around the knee. Surgery may also be necessary in some cases.
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Dislocated kneecap
A dislocated kneecap occurs when the bone that covers the knee joint is moved out of place. This can cause the knee to pop or snap.
Iliotibial band syndrome
Iliotibial band syndrome is a condition that causes inflammation of the iliotibial band. The iliotibial band is a strip of tissue that runs from the hip to the knee. It can cause the knee to pop or snap when moved.
What Are Its Treatment Options?
There are several treatment options for knee popping. They are as follows:
Weight management
Excess weight can put extra pressure on the knees. Losing weight may help to reduce pain and popping. For instance, a study in the International Journal of Obesity found that even a 5% reduction in body weight can improve knee pain and function.
Physical therapy
A physical therapist can teach you exercises to help strengthen the muscles around your knee. This may help to stabilize the joint and reduce popping. It includes a combination of:
- Joint mobilization
- Strengthening exercises
- Aerobic conditioning
Exercise
Exercise can help to strengthen the muscles around the knee and improve joint mobility. It includes range-of-motion, flexibility, and strength-training exercises. For instance, doing a hamstring stretch can help to loosen the muscles around the back of the knee and improve the range of motion or simple walking can also help reduce knee pain.
Strengthening exercises for the quadriceps, hamstrings, and calves can also help to support the knee joint and prevent further injury. A physical therapist or certified personal trainer can design an appropriate exercise program for people with knee problems.
Medications
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, can help to reduce pain and inflammation. Various medications can be used. They are as follows:
- Hyaluronic acid injections
- Pain relievers
- Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs)
Injections
Corticosteroid injections can help to reduce inflammation and pain. They are typically only used for short-term relief. Hyaluronic acid injections may also be used to lubricate the knee joint. This can help to reduce popping and pain.
Joint lubrication injections: Injecting lubrication into the knee joint can help to reduce popping and pain. This is a non-surgical treatment option that may be recommended for people with osteoarthritis.
Arthroscopic surgery
In some cases, surgery may be needed to repair damage to the knee joint. Arthroscopic surgery is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to treat various problems in the knee joint.In some cases, surgery may be necessary to correct a structural problem in the knee joint.
Total knee replacement
In severe cases, a total knee replacement may be necessary. This is a major surgery that involves replacing the damaged knee joint with an artificial one. For people with severe knee pain and disability, a total knee replacement can greatly improve their quality of life.
Knee popping can often be treated at home with simple lifestyle changes and over-the-counter (OTC) medications. However, some underlying conditions may require more aggressive treatment. If you suspect that you have an underlying condition, make an appointment with your doctor. They can help to diagnose the cause and recommend appropriate treatment options.
Conclusion
It may be concluded that the popping of knee is a condition that could be caused by a variety of factors. However, in most cases, it is due to weakened ligaments or tendons around the knee joint. Treatment options vary depending on the severity of the condition but may include physical therapy, braces, or surgery. Surgery should only be considered as a last resort. In most cases, the popping of the knee can be treated effectively with nonsurgical methods.
If you have concerns about your popping knee, make an appointment to see your doctor. They will evaluate your condition and discuss treatment options with you.
Physical Therapy help patients recover from pain. If you’re experiencing Back pain, Shoulder pain, Knee pain, Neck pain, Elbow pain, Hip pain, or Arthritis pain, a physical therapist at MantraCare can help: Book a physiotherapy session.
