Knee Pain and Noise After Jumping: Causes and Solutions

Knee pain with audible sounds, able to walk but unable to squat?

Hello, during physical education class today, I was measuring my standing long jump and did not land properly.
My knee made a loud noise, and although I can walk normally and go up and down stairs, I cannot bend it excessively or squat down.
There is slight swelling in my knee, and it feels like there is air trapped inside.
What could be the issue? What kind of assistance can I seek? Thank you!

Li Yongqi, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/12/28

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics

Today, you should apply ice and rest for the day, avoiding movement.
There is a possibility that you may have injured the internal structures of the knee, such as the meniscus or other ligaments.
If the pain persists for a long time and does not improve, you will need to see a doctor.
Sometimes, there may be a hematoma within the joint that requires treatment.

Reply Date: 2015/12/28

More Info

Knee pain and noise after jumping can be concerning, especially if you experienced a significant sound during the landing and subsequent discomfort. Based on your description, it seems that you may have sustained an injury to your knee, potentially involving the ligaments, cartilage, or other structures within the joint. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the possible causes and recommended solutions.

Possible Causes
1. Ligament Injury: The knee is stabilized by several ligaments, including the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and the medial collateral ligament (MCL). A sudden impact or awkward landing can lead to sprains or tears in these ligaments, resulting in pain, swelling, and sometimes a popping sound during the injury.

2. Meniscus Tear: The meniscus is a C-shaped cartilage that acts as a cushion between your thigh bone and shin bone. A twisting motion during landing can cause a tear, leading to pain, swelling, and a sensation of locking or catching in the knee.

3. Patellar Injury: The patella (kneecap) can also be affected during a jump. If the patella is dislocated or if there is patellar tendinitis (jumper's knee), you may experience pain and noise, especially when bending or straightening the knee.

4. Synovial Fluid Issues: The sensation of air or fluid not being expelled from the knee could indicate an accumulation of synovial fluid, often due to inflammation or injury. This condition, known as "joint effusion," can lead to swelling and discomfort.

5. Chondromalacia Patella: This condition refers to the softening and breakdown of the cartilage on the underside of the kneecap. It can cause pain and noise during movement, especially after activities like jumping or running.

Recommended Solutions
1. Rest and Ice: Initially, it is crucial to rest the knee and avoid activities that exacerbate the pain. Applying ice to the affected area for 15-20 minutes every few hours can help reduce swelling and alleviate pain.

2. Compression and Elevation: Using a compression bandage can help minimize swelling. Elevating the knee above heart level can also assist in reducing fluid accumulation.

3. Physical Therapy: Once the initial pain and swelling subside, engaging in physical therapy can be beneficial. A physical therapist can guide you through exercises to strengthen the muscles around the knee, improve flexibility, and restore range of motion.

4. Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help manage pain and inflammation. However, consult with a healthcare provider before starting any medication.

5. Medical Evaluation: If symptoms persist or worsen, it is essential to seek a thorough evaluation from an orthopedic specialist. They may recommend imaging studies, such as X-rays or an MRI, to assess the extent of any injuries.

6. Activity Modification: Avoid high-impact activities, such as jumping or running, until you have fully recovered. Gradually reintroducing these activities under the guidance of a healthcare professional can help prevent re-injury.

7. Knee Brace: Depending on the injury, wearing a knee brace may provide additional support during recovery and help stabilize the joint.

Conclusion
Knee pain and noise after jumping can arise from various injuries, and understanding the underlying cause is crucial for effective treatment. Rest, ice, and professional evaluation are vital steps in managing your symptoms. Always listen to your body and avoid pushing through pain, as this can lead to more significant injuries. If you have any concerns or if your symptoms do not improve, do not hesitate to consult a healthcare professional for further assistance.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Knee Noises: Causes, Concerns, and Rehabilitation Tips

Hello, doctor. When I walk or run, my knees don't show any significant issues, but whenever I bend them, such as when squatting down and standing up or kneeling, they make a loud cracking sound when pressure is applied. Occasionally, I feel a slight soreness, but generally, ...

Dr. Xu Zhijun reply Orthopedics
Hello: The human knee begins to form a cavity from embryonic development, gradually forming condyles from the distal end of the femur and the proximal end of the tibia, which become part of the hard and soft tissues of the knee joint. Sometimes, during the formation of the cavity...

Knee Pain and Numbness: Understanding Symptoms and Seeking Help

Hello, Dr. Zhou. I am a soldier who has just started my service. My question is that I often feel pain on the inner side of my knee after doing jumping jacks, and sometimes I experience a tingling sensation from my buttocks down to my thighs. Additionally, when I squat with my fe...

Dr. Zhou Lizhi reply Orthopedics
Young individuals who have just enlisted often experience various symptoms due to an increase in physical training compared to their usual activity levels. Here are the answers to your questions: 1. Pain on the inner side of the knee ligaments after jumping jacks may occur due ...

Understanding Knee Pain: Causes and Solutions for Active Athletes

I have been experiencing knee pain for over a year. I love playing basketball, but now every time I jump, my knee hurts. It also hurts when I squat, and sometimes even walking causes pain. I have seen other doctors, and they took X-rays but said everything is fine. What could be ...

Dr. Wang Shouji reply Orthopedics
Hello: If you experience pain while squatting and jumping, it is important to check for inflammation or cartilage issues in the patellofemoral joint, such as patellar chondromalacia. Early X-rays often appear normal, but if the problem persists after more than a month of rest, fu...

Understanding Knee Pain: Causes and Solutions for Young Athletes

I am 30 years old, and for the past year or two, every time I play basketball, my knees hurt the next day. When bending or straightening my knees, I feel a sensation of something getting stuck in the middle of the knee, and sometimes there is a popping sound. When my left knee is...

Dr. Li Wenlin reply Orthopedics
Hello: In response to your question, based on your description, the pain and sensation of the kneecap getting stuck with a popping sound the day after exercise is typically due to inflammation of the patellar ligament caused by intense physical activity. Generally, resting for a ...