Knee Cracking and Popping (Knee Crepitus). Should You Be Worried?

• Cavitation: This is the most common cause of knee popping. It happens when gas bubbles form in the synovial fluid, the thick fluid that lubricates your joints. When you apply force to your knee, the gas bubbles can burst, causing a popping sound. This is usually harmless and doesn’t cause any pain.
• Meniscus tear: The meniscus is a C-shaped piece of cartilage that acts as a cushion between your thighbone (femur) and shinbone (tibia). If you tear your meniscus, it can cause your knee to pop and become unstable.
• Arthritis: Arthritis is a condition that causes inflammation and damage to the cartilage in your joints. This can lead to pain, stiffness, and swelling in your joints, including your knees. If you have arthritis, your knee may pop when you move it.

If you’re concerned about your knee popping, it’s a good idea to see a doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions. In most cases, there’s no need to worry about a popping knee. However, if the popping is accompanied by pain, swelling, or instability, it’s important to see a doctor to get treatment.

Here are some tips to help prevent your knee from popping:

• Warm up before exercising.
• Stretch your hamstrings and quadriceps regularly.
• Wear proper footwear.
• Avoid exercises that put too much stress on your knees, such as deep squats and lunges.
• If you have arthritis, talk to your doctor about ways to manage your pain and inflammation.