Knee popping and pain: Causes and when to consult a doctor
If you have ever felt a sudden loud pop in knee followed by pain, it can be an unsettling experience. Whether it occurs during physical activity, a sudden twist, or even a routine movement, knee sounds accompanied by discomfort may signal underlying joint issues that should not be overlooked.
It’s not uncommon for patients to wonder why is my knee popping, particularly when the sensation is new, frequent, or associated with pain.
Many individuals experience knee popping and pain without knowing its origin or severity.
In this blog, we will understand what these symptoms mean and when to consult a specialist to prevent long-term complications.
Common Causes of Knee Popping and Pain
A human knee is a complex joint containing bones, ligaments, cartilage, tendons, and synovial fluid. These components work together to facilitate motion and support body weight. Any issues with these components can lead to a loud pop in knee followed by pain, often indicating injury or strain within the joint.
1. Ligament Injuries
Ligament injuries are the most frequent cause of a loud pop in knee followed by pain. Such injuries typically occur during high-impact sports or sudden directional changes and may also be accompanied by swelling and joint instability.
2. Meniscal Tears
A meniscus is a cartilage pad that cushions the knee joint. A torn meniscus can result in joint pain and an audible or palpable popping sound. Meniscal injuries may also cause stiffness or locking of the knee.
3. Cartilage Damage and Loose Bodies
Articular cartilage damage or the presence of loose fragments within the joint space may lead to mechanical symptoms such as clicking, catching, and popping. These are often experienced during flexion or extension and are commonly associated with chronic joint disorders or previous trauma.
4. Patellar Tracking Disorders
When the kneecap (patella) does not glide smoothly along its groove, it can create a popping sensation accompanied by discomfort, particularly during activities such as climbing stairs or squatting. This issue is frequently seen in younger individuals or those with muscular imbalances around the knee.
5. Degenerative Joint Conditions
Conditions such as osteoarthritis may cause joint surfaces to wear down over time, producing grinding or popping sounds along with pain, stiffness, and limited mobility. This is particularly common in older adults but may also affect younger individuals with risk factors such as obesity or prior joint injury.
6. Benign Joint Sounds (Crepitus)
In some cases, the knee may pop or crack without any underlying pathology. This is known as benign crepitus, and air bubbles often cause it within the joint fluid, bursting during movement.
When to Consult a Specialist
Not all knee noises need to be worried about; however, it is essential to seek medical attention if the following symptoms are present:
- A loud pop in knee followed by pain, along with rapid swelling
- Ongoing joint instability or the sensation of the knee “giving way”
- Persistent discomfort or mechanical symptoms such as locking
- Decreased range of motion or visible deformity
- Pain that does not resolve with rest and conservative management
The signs above indicate significant internal damage requiring timely intervention to prevent long-term impairment of the knee joint.
Diagnostic Approach
A comprehensive evaluation is required to diagnose the cause of knee popping and pain accurately. At the time of consultation, the orthopaedic specialist will begin by carefully reviewing your symptoms and medical history.
A thorough knee assessment begins with an examination. The doctor observes how your knee moves, tests the surrounding muscle strength, and looks for signs of swelling, tenderness, or instability. These physical findings often guide the next steps.
If there’s reason to suspect deeper joint involvement, imaging such as an X-ray or MRI is usually recommended.
These scans provide a clearer picture of what’s happening inside the knee, whether it’s a torn ligament, damaged cartilage, misaligned joint surfaces, or early wear that could point to arthritis.
Treatment Approach
Once a diagnosis has been established, the treatment plan is made for the specific condition and the individual needs of the patient.
- Physiotherapy to restore muscular balance and joint function
- Anti-inflammatory medications or targeted injections for pain relief
- Arthroscopic surgery to address meniscal or cartilage injuries
- Ligament reconstruction in the case of complete tears
- Joint preservation techniques for younger patients with early degenerative changes
- Knee replacement surgery for advanced osteoarthritis
With advancements in surgical techniques, many procedures can now be performed using minimally invasive methods, allowing for quicker recovery and better preservation of healthy tissue.
Also Read – When Should I Worry About Swelling After Knee Surgery?
Consulting a Knee Specialist in Dubai
If you are wondering, “Why does my knee keep popping and hurting?”, it may be time to consult a specialist with expertise in complex knee conditions.
Dr. Rik Kundra – Expert Orthopaedic Surgeon with a Focus on Knee Health
Dr. Rik Kundra is a senior orthopaedic surgeon with a prestigious British training background and over 20 years of clinical experience. Currently practising in Dubai, he specialises in knee-related conditions and has developed particular expertise in ACL reconstruction, knee osteotomy, arthroscopy, and minimally invasive knee replacement.
His focus has long been on preserving the natural joint whenever possible. He is especially known for his work in biological knee reconstruction and for offering solutions that help delay or avoid full joint replacement, particularly in younger and active patients—especially those who experience symptoms like a loud pop in knee followed by pain.
Taking the Right Steps Toward Long-Term Joint Health
A knee that pops and causes pain should never be dismissed as a minor issue. In many cases, this combination of symptoms may reveal a serious problem, such as a ligament tear, cartilage injury, or an early stage of arthritis.
Early identification and timely treatment can help prevent long-term damage to the joint.
Dr. Rik Kundra provides thorough, patient-focused care for individuals facing knee discomfort, instability, or recurring joint noises.
Early intervention, guided by the right specialist, is key to restoring comfort and preserving joint health.
Don’t delay, book your consultation today!
Disclaimer
All content and media on this page are created and published for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice and should not be relied on as health or personal advice. Meet Dr. Rik personally for appropriate medical diagnosis and advice.
