Knee clicking is a common occurrence that many experience. Often, this sound is harmless. However, accompanying symptoms indicate whether an underlying problem exists.
Understanding the Sounds in Your Knee
One frequent and harmless cause of knee clicking is the release of gas bubbles within the synovial fluid. Synovial fluid lubricates the joint; changes in pressure can cause nitrogen gas bubbles to form and collapse, producing a popping or cracking sound similar to cracking knuckles. This process is painless and not a sign of joint damage.
Another common benign cause involves the snapping of tendons or ligaments. These tissues can snap over bony prominences around the knee joint as it moves, creating an audible click or pop. This type of sound is not associated with pain or significant problems, though it can sometimes be felt as a slight flick.
When knee clicking is accompanied by other sensations or symptoms, it might point to issues with the joint’s cartilage or alignment. Conditions like meniscal tears, which involve damage to the C-shaped cartilage pads in the knee, can cause clicking or popping when torn pieces catch in the joint during movement. Similarly, osteoarthritis, characterized by the breakdown of joint cartilage, can lead to grinding or creaking sounds as roughened joint surfaces rub against each other. Patellar tracking issues, where the kneecap (patella) does not move smoothly within its groove on the thigh bone, can also result in popping or clicking sensations due to misalignment and friction.
When to Be Concerned
Experiencing pain alongside knee clicking is a primary indicator that the sound may signify an underlying issue. This pain can manifest as sharp, dull, or aching discomfort.
Noticeable swelling around the knee joint is another important red flag. Swelling, particularly when combined with clicking, can suggest inflammation or injury within the joint. A feeling of locking or catching, where the knee momentarily gets stuck or feels like it is catching during movement, often points to mechanical issues like a torn meniscus.
Instability, described as a sensation that the knee might give out or buckle, also suggests a more serious problem. Difficulty fully bending or straightening the knee, indicating a reduced range of motion, is another concerning symptom. The presence of warmth or redness around the knee can further signal inflammation or infection.
Next Steps for Your Knee
A doctor will typically begin with a physical examination of the knee. This involves assessing the knee’s range of motion, checking for stability, and identifying areas of tenderness.
Imaging tests may be ordered if the physical examination suggests a structural issue. X-rays are useful for visualizing bones and can detect problems like fractures, dislocations, or advanced osteoarthritis where bone spurs might be present. If soft tissue damage, such as a torn meniscus, ligament injury, or cartilage issues, is suspected, a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan provides more detailed images. However, imaging is not always necessary, particularly if the clicking is painless.
Once a diagnosis is made, management approaches can vary. Conservative care is often the first line of treatment, including rest, applying ice, compression, and elevation (RICE). Physical therapy plays a significant role in strengthening muscles around the knee and improving joint stability.
Anti-inflammatory medications may also be prescribed to help manage pain and reduce swelling. Activity modification, which involves adjusting movements to reduce strain on the knee, is often recommended. Surgery is generally considered a last resort for specific structural problems, such as significant meniscal tears or severe arthritis, that do not respond to conservative treatments.