Cracking Knees When Squatting: Causes and Treatments
You are not alone if you have ever heard cracking or popping sounds when squatting. This sensation is common, and it might be accompanied by discomfort or pain in the knees. In rare circumstances, cracking knees while squatting can indicate an underlying problem. In this post from London physiotherapy clinic One Body LDN, we will look at the potential causes of cracked knees as well as some of the therapies available to aid with this issue.
What Causes Knee Cracking When Squatting?
There are various possible causes of squatting knee breaking. Let’s look at some of them more closely:
Gas Bubbles in The Knee Joint
The discharge of gas bubbles from the synovial fluid that surrounds the knee joint is a typical cause of cracked knees during squatting. This is comparable to the sound made when you crack your knuckles. Squatting raises the pressure on your knee joint, which can cause gas bubbles to escape from the synovial fluid and produce a popping sound.
Meniscus or Cartilage Injury
Damage to the cartilage or meniscus in the knee joint is another probable reason of cracked knees during squatting. The cartilage in the joint works as a cushion between the bones, whereas the meniscus is a portion of cartilage that acts as a shock absorber. When you move your knee, if either of these structures is damaged, you may hear popping or cracking sounds.
Tendons or Ligaments Snapping Over Bones
Ligaments and tendons are fibrous structures that connect muscles and bones. When these structures snap over bones during movement, a popping sound is produced. Snapping syndrome is a condition that can arise in the knee or other joints.
Arthritis
Arthritis is a disorder that causes joint inflammation. When you move your joints, including your knees, you may hear cracking or popping sounds. Arthritis can also result in joint discomfort, stiffness, and oedema.
Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome
Patellofemoral pain syndrome is characterised by pain and discomfort in the front of the knee. Overuse, injury, or misalignment of the patella can all cause it (kneecap). When you move your knee, you may hear cracking or popping sounds.
How to Treat Cracking Knees When Squatting
The treatment for squatting knee cracks is determined by the underlying cause of the disease. Here are a few therapy options:
Ice and rest
Rest and ice might help relieve pain if your knee is sore or inflamed after squatting. Apply ice to your knee several times a day for 15-20 minutes at a time. Rest your knee and avoid activities that make it worse.
Exercises for Strengthening and Stretching
Cracking knees when squatting can be caused by weakness or tension in the muscles surrounding the knee. Strengthening and stretching workouts can aid your knee joint’s stability and flexibility.
Exercises appropriate for your condition can be recommended by your physiotherapist.
Joint Mobilisations
Physiotherapists utilise joint mobilisation as a manual therapy approach to improve the movement of the knee joint. This therapy uses moderate joint movements to help relieve discomfort and enhance function.
Bracing of the Knees
Using a knee brace while squatting might assist support the knee joint and prevent discomfort. Your physiotherapist can propose an appropriate brace for your situation.
Surgery
Surgery may be required in some circumstances to restore damaged cartilage or remove loose bodies from the knee joint. Nonetheless, this is usually reserved for extreme conditions and is not always required.
When it comes to cracking knees when squatting, prevention is crucial. It is critical to concentrate on good form, such as keeping your knees in line with your toes and not allowing them to collapse in or out. Strengthening the muscles that surround the knee, such as the quadriceps and hamstrings, can also assist give support and stability. Frequent stretching and foam rolling can also help avoid knee joint tightness and stiffness.
Finally, cracking knees when squatting is a typical problem that can be caused by a variety of variables such as cartilage damage, tendinitis, and muscle imbalances. If the cracking is accompanied by discomfort or swelling, it is critical to get medical assistance since this may suggest a more serious problem. Working with a skilled London physiotherapist can aid in the resolution of any underlying issues and the prevention of future knee problems. You can help maintain your knees healthy and pain-free during squats and other physical activities by focusing on appropriate form, strengthening exercises, and frequent stretching. And if you’re looking for the best physiotherapy in London, contact One Body LDN today!
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