What causes the cracking sound in the knee?
Disease description:
After running or not being active for a long time, you may hear a popping sound from your knee. What causes this?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Chen Jian
Knee cracking, commonly referred to as "knee joint popping," refers to the sound heard when moving the knee joint.
1. Physiological factors: The knee joint is formed by the femur, tibia, and patella, with ligaments and tendons providing support around the joint. When the knee joint moves, the synovial fluid within the joint acts as a lubricant, reducing friction between the bones. Normal knee joint popping may result from the dissolution and release of gases within the synovial fluid, similar to the "popping" sound heard when opening a soda bottle. This phenomenon is usually painless and does not cause damage.
2. Meniscus injury: The meniscus is a cartilage pad located between the femur and tibia, which cushions pressure and stabilizes the joint. After an injury, abnormal sounds may occur during knee joint movement.
3. Chondromalacia patellae: Softening and wearing away of the patellar cartilage can cause a cracking sound when moving the knee joint.
4. Arthritis: Including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, inflammation leads to destruction of the joint cartilage, causing joint noises and pain.
If knee cracking is accompanied by discomfort or other symptoms, it is recommended to seek medical treatment immediately.
