Popping and cracking in your knee can worry you, but it isn’t always a sign of serious damage in your knee. In this Ask Dr. Geier video, I discuss why might your knee pop or crack, especially in the days and weeks after undergoing knee surgery.
Jon asks:
I had my ACL reconstruction and medial meniscus repair surgery 6 days ago. Is it normal to hear a popping/clicking sound whenever I try to bend my leg for therapy?
Sometimes popping in your knee represents wear and tear of the articular cartilage lining the bones of your knee (essentially arthritis changes). There are fairly normal reasons for popping, though. For example, your patella (kneecap) might track just little differently, or the cartilage under your patellar might be a little soft.
After knee surgery, the knee is often swollen. Also, the quadriceps muscles can be weak. These factors can affect your knee and can lead to popping and cracking. In this video, I discuss these and other factors that can make your knee pop and crack after knee surgery.
Also read:
Why does my knee pop and crack?
Signs your knee injury could be serious
Please remember, while I appreciate your questions, I cannot and will not offer specific medical advice by email, on my website, on my podcast, or in social media. My responses are meant to provide general medical information and education. Please consult your physician or health care provider for your specific medical concerns.
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