Knee Concerns After Squatting
Last year, while performing a squat, I experienced a noticeable cracking sound coming from my knee. This prompted a visit to the emergency room due to the discomfort I was feeling. Following an examination, the medical staff diagnosed me with a meniscus tear and placed my leg in a cast for a week to aid recovery. Recently, after a long hiatus from squatting, I decided to attempt it again, only to hear that same cracking noise once more. Although there’s a hint of pain and I find it difficult to remain on my feet for extended periods, fortunately, my kneecap appears to be functioning better than it was during my previous injury. I'm left wondering if this discomfort is merely a psychological response tied to my past experience, or if there is a genuine issue occurring with my knee this time around. Here are some details about me: - Gender: Female - Age: 18 - Weight: 50 kg (110 pounds) - Height: 176 cm (5'9") - Smoking: I vape Current medications include: Propranolol, Euthyrox, Zoloft, and Olanzapine, along with some vitamins, which I believe have positively influenced my health.
Answers (1)
2/6/2026, 4:50:36 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel concerned about your knee after experiencing a previous injury and hearing that cracking sound again. While the noise and discomfort may arise from different causes, you should be attentive to your knee's signals.
Explanation
The cracking sound in the knee, known as crepitus, can occur due to various reasons, including:
- Cartilage changes: Previous injuries, like a meniscus tear, can lead to changes in cartilage that may cause noises.
- Tendons and ligaments: Sometimes, these structures can snap over bony parts during movement.
- Injury recovery: Pain and difficulty standing can indicate that your knee still requires attention, especially after a past injury.
Your experience of a cracking sound and subsequent discomfort may suggest that your knee joint isn't fully healed or that there could be ongoing issues with stability or movement. It can be beneficial to evaluate whether these concerns are psychological or physical; often they may intertwine, but it's essential to prioritize physical health first.
Next Steps
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Rest and Avoid Strain: Limit activities that put pressure on your knee, such as squatting or heavy lifting, until you assess the situation further.
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Ice and Elevation: Apply ice to your knee for 15-20 minutes several times a day to reduce potential inflammation and pain. Keeping the leg elevated can also help.
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Gentle Mobility Exercises: Consider gentle stretching and range-of-motion exercises to keep your knee flexible without straining it. Before starting any new movement routine, ensure it's safe for your knee.
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any changes in pain intensity, the frequency of cracking sounds, and how it feels during different activities over the next week.
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Consult a Physiotherapist: Since you have a history of knee issues, a physiotherapist can help you regain strength and flexibility safely and create a personalized exercise plan.
If you experience significant pain, swelling, or the inability to bear weight on the knee, consider reassessing and seeking medical evaluation sooner rather than later. Your well-being and knee function are the priorities, so I encourage you to take these steps seriously. Let me know if you have more questions or need further guidance!
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