Why there is a crunch in the knees during flexion and extension and what to do about it. How unpleasant this crunch in the knees

Knee crunching when squatting is a common occurrence among both athletes and those who have never gone to the gym. Squatting is optional with a barbell, this is a movement designation when a person gets up from a chair or sits on it or squats. Let's see what's the matter and why do the knees click?

Briefly about the structure of the knee

We promise not to load the anatomical complexities of the knee joint. Although, the joint is really complex. To understand why the knee is so vulnerable, let's look inside it, what is there under the skin?

And there are several structures connected together - the heads of the tibia and femur, the meniscus and ligaments, due to which this entire structure is held together. If you feel your kneecap, you will notice that it is mobile. Now imagine how complicated nature invented everything to ensure mobility and, at the same time, strength and physiologically correct functionality of the knee joint. This is not your elbow, although that one is also not quite simple.

Inside the knee is joint fluid. With its lack, hard friction of the bones against each other will begin, the knee swells and loses all mobility. By the way, you may have already begun to understand why the knees can hurt. For example, due to lack of joint fluid.

Why the knee can suffer:

1. Violation of the structure of any component of the joint (cartilage, bone, ligaments).
2. Violation of the composition or volume of the joint fluid.
3. Violation of the composition of cartilage and ligaments.

Here are the reasons why the knee crunches when squatting. If one of these conditions appears, it becomes much easier to damage the knee than in a healthy body. In a normally functioning body, it is possible to damage the knee only by giving it a huge load, that is, by tearing a ligament or damaging the cartilage. But at the same time, the knee will immediately swell and will be very painful.

Another thing is with the problems indicated under paragraphs 1, 2, 3. Violations occur gradually, and everything starts with a crunch (a click is heard when bending). So, let's talk about the very crunch and clicking that many people hear when walking up stairs, squats and other movements associated with bending the legs at the knee.

Causes of crunch

Knees crunch or creak for several reasons. Now it will be more clear to you what and how, after a small anatomical digression from the previous section:

1. Nutrition problems.
2. Problems with metabolism.
3. Pathological conditions: inflammatory infectious and non-infectious processes in the knee joint (for example, arthritis).

Nutrition problems

Usually, a person does not consume enough substances that form joints and joint fluid with food. The joint contains glycosaminoglycans (GAGs): chondroitin and glucosamine. This is the basis for cartilage tissue.

In normal life, knee problems can appear after 50 years. If you squat with a barbell and work out consistently in the gym, the body will need much more of these very GAGs than with the usual rhythm of life. Accordingly, you need to get more of them with food.

That is why athletes are advised to use supplements in the form of "glucosamine + chondroitin". This is an "ambulance" for our joints. And we are talking not only about the knee, but also all other joints. After all, they also consist of the same substances. So the causes of crunching in the knees may lie in the wrong diet.

Next is water. It must be consumed in the right amount. 2-4 liters per day, depending on weight. You will say: "there will be swelling!". But no, if you do not eat a lot of salt, and if your kidneys are healthy, edema will not appear, because the liquid will calmly pass through the body, be absorbed in the right quantities, and the excess will be excreted from the body. So it was, and so it will be.

Metabolism

The crunch in the knees during squats is just due to the fact that the necessary substances are not enough. But why are these substances not enough if a person eats right?

In this case, we are talking about a metabolic disorder. The body cannot absorb substances in the right quantities, the body gains weight, shortness of breath appears, excessive sweating.

The question is solved at the expense of a campaign to the endocrinologist. Here you can not be treated on your own, because you do not know what to treat, and even more so - how. Forget the advice of colorful sites from the Internet. Just go to the endocrinologist and say: "I'm worried about my metabolism, is everything okay with it?". Next, trust your doctor.

Knees crunch and click not only in adults, a teenager can also have a problem if he has problems with the endocrine glands. The reasons for this may be in genetic anomalies or the wrong way of life.

If your knees crunch when squatting, it makes sense to limit the load until the exact cause is clarified. Maybe it's time to switch to more gentle exercises.

Diseases

What diseases cause crunchy knees? With those that are associated with damage to cartilage tissue, inflammatory processes or injuries.

The infectious agent disrupts the physiological balance inside the knee, starts the processes of destruction. Swelling, inflammation, changes in the composition of fluids - all this leads to crunching and pain.

Cracking and crunching begin to appear while walking up the stairs, when bending the legs, even from a prone position. So you can find out whether there is a crunch or not. It is usually well heard.

If the crunch brings discomfort, you need to see a doctor. And doctors are different. Someone will send home with the words: “do not invent a disease for yourself,” but someone will really help. So do not despair if the doctor turned out to be the most mediocre creature on the planet. There will always be a good specialist.

What to do if your knees are cracking

What to do if there is a crunch? Is it possible to continue and why?

Let's take everything in order.

If you have a crunch, try to reconsider your diet. You need to start looking for a problem with the simplest reasons. If the problem is nutrition, then it is easiest to solve.

Try a couple of weeks to add to your diet fish oil or fish of fatty varieties, sunflower oil in unrefined raw form. Your best bet is to buy specific cartilage supplements from a sports store and add them to your menu as well.

If the crunch does not go away, pain appears, which means that the matter is not entirely in nutrition. It is better to consult a specialist (rheumatologist).

Pay attention to your weight, if it is more than 100 kg, maybe that's it? If you limit yourself in calories, but the weight is still going up, you should contact an endocrinologist.

And finally, if you have nighttime knee pain, you should definitely see a doctor. Local warming compresses in this situation are powerless, it is necessary to eliminate the infectious agent from the body. Compresses never did it alone.

If you hurt your knee, it is swollen and sore, it is also better to make an appointment with a doctor. If, after a bruise or a fall, the pain is very strong and sharp, call an ambulance. You should also be careful if your child has broken his knee. After all, children can not always accurately describe their feelings.

Do not self-medicate if the pain persists!

And the most important parting word: if the situation has not changed within 2-3 weeks, you feel worse (we mean the time from the onset of discomfort, and not from the moment of acute pain, when you need to contact a specialist immediately) - contact the hospital.

Is it possible to play sports with a crunch

If you have a crunch, and you need to do squats, you need to pay attention to the following points:

1. Squat without weight and decide if this crunch brings you discomfort or pain.
2. Try to squat with weight for the same purpose.
3. Wrap elastic bandages around your knees and sit down with weight - if the crunch has disappeared, then you can safely practice. If not, squat more carefully, listening to the sensations. If pain occurs, you need to stop exercising until the cause is clarified.

For those people who complain about crunching in the knees, we recommend doing squats not to parallel with the floor, but higher. It is enough to bend the legs at the knees by 50-70 degrees so that the muscles of the legs have already received a load. Do not listen to coaches who will yell at you what you are doing wrong. Your own knees. In addition, people who have not encountered this problem cannot always adequately assess your condition.

You can smear your knees with a warming ointment. Only use it in small amounts, because under the bandage, it can lead to severe burning.

And the last thing: if your knees are crackling, think about whether it is worth going further to the records? Your body is already signaling that it will be difficult for it to perform heavy weight squats. And, if you do not listen to him, everything can end sadly. Listen and respect your body, gentlemen!

Probably, every person in his life had to feel at least once that his knee crunches when bending. But it is immediately worth noting the fact that at the same time a person does not feel even the slightest manifestations of pain, but still this sound can create certain inconveniences, since few people will be pleased to draw attention to themselves in this way. But is this phenomenon really harmless or is it a symptom of the onset of a serious illness? And if diseases, then what? And how to prevent it? This article is dedicated to answering these questions.

What it is

When they say that when bending, then this refers to the crackling and clicks emitted by the joints both during active movement and during passive movement. But, as practice shows, most often they appear during squatting or brisk walking. In most cases, this happens in athletes or athletes and indicates their severe overtraining. But recently, this problem has begun to arise both in adults and in children. So why is this happening?

when bending

This phenomenon can be caused by various factors. Which include:

• A variety of diseases, for example, arthritis, tendonitis, bursitis.
• Certain lifestyle.
• Numerous physical activities.
• damage and dysplasia.

In addition, such a phenomenon, when the knees crunch, but do not hurt, may be a manifestation of the norm. But let's dwell on each reason in a little more detail.

as a variant of the norm

As practice shows, sometimes such a phenomenon can be a manifestation of the norm and does not serve as symptoms of something more serious. The determining factor that everything is normal is considered to be the absence of pain in the knee. So why do knees crackle but don't hurt? The answer to this question is devoted to a huge number of dissertations and scientific papers. So, for example, it is believed that due to the increase in gas bubbles in the fluid that washes the joint (it is also called synovial), the volume of the joint cavity itself increases, which is accompanied by a characteristic click. Further, these bubbles dissolve, which in turn allows the joints to return to their original position, which can also serve as one of the causes of a crunch or click. It should be borne in mind that the time interval between such sounds can be from 15 to 25 minutes.

Another theory that has received confirmation says that these sounds may arise due to the ligament or tendon touching certain bone fragments, which protrude somewhat. Examples include the bones of the shoulders, hips, or wrists. In this case, the emitted click will be somewhat quieter.

High mobility

Probably, each of us in our lives admired acrobats or gymnasts who demonstrated magnificent stretching? But few people know that most of these people have a congenital defect of the connective tissue, which is manifested by a sufficient weakness of the articular-ligamentous apparatus. As practice shows, it is in these people that the knee most often crackles when bent, but in their case this is more a manifestation of the norm than something that requires close attention from specialists. But if such a phenomenon occurs with enviable regularity, then it is still worth contacting a medical institution.

Arthritis, tendinitis, bursitis

As already mentioned, such a phenomenon may be a variant of the norm, but if it begins to appear quite often and without observing the time interval, then this is already one of the early symptoms that various inflammatory processes can begin in the human body. In addition, one of the symptoms of the onset of the development of a serious disease is not only the fact that the knee constantly crackles, but also the fact that this process is accompanied by severe pain, and in some cases even limited mobility of the joint itself. Each of these symptoms may indicate the presence or development of diseases such as arthrosis, tendinitis, deforming osteoarthritis, bursitis.

Low mobility

As recent statistical studies show, some people who work mainly in offices and lead a sedentary lifestyle, one day are surprised to find that their knee crunches when flexing / extending. This happens due to the fact that a person, by nature, needs at least minor physical activity, and in the absence of it, gradual atrophy and weakening of the muscles occur, which in turn entails weakening of the ligaments. As a result, the articular apparatus can no longer fully perform its functions, as a result of which characteristic clicks-crunches begin to appear even with the most elementary movement. Such signals in most cases carry information that the body is gradually decrepit, it is necessary to pay attention to your physical condition.

Strong physical activity

Knee crunches when bending and when not following the measure during exercise? It should be borne in mind that work associated with lifting weights or weightlifting can also lead not only to this phenomenon, but also cause a disease such as arthrosis. Therefore, at the first manifestations of a crunch or clicks, it is worth reducing physical activity and taking care of yourself a little.

Injuries, injuries and dysplasia

Quite often, knees crunch when you squat after suffering various joint injuries in the past, since after that the joint becomes a little weaker (even after fully carried out therapeutic measures), which in the future can be expressed in such characteristic sounds. In addition, it should be understood that this joint will automatically fall into the risk group for possible recurrence of damage. That is why it is recommended to avoid situations that can lead to them, and the characteristic click of the joints during movement serves more as a reminder that this joint must be especially protected.

Also answering the question: “Why do the knees crackle when bent?”, Do not forget about such a common phenomenon as the underdevelopment of various tissues that make up the joint, it is also called dysplasia. In the presence of dysplasia, the damaged joint is to some extent considered weakened, but not due to external damage, but to a greater extent due to underdevelopment, but this does not prevent them from being combined into one group.

Diagnostics

If the crunch in the knees causes some inconvenience, then it is recommended to visit an arthrologist or orthopedist in order to prevent the development of arthritis or arthrosis in the future. After a full-time examination, a specialist will prescribe certain diagnostic measures that are aimed at making the correct diagnosis and starting adequate treatment. Such activities in most cases are introduced to the delivery of tests for reactive protein, and x-rays and ultrasound of the joint.

Knees crunch: how to treat

Depending on the diagnosis, the most appropriate treatment is prescribed. So, for example, for arthritis or arthrosis, anti-inflammatory and antihistamine drugs are used, which are prescribed for a certain course. In addition, ointments are applied topically, which are based on bee honey or other substances containing warming components.

If excess weight is the cause of the knee cracking when flexed, the treatment is to reconsider your lifestyle. And more precisely, in its activation. All that is needed for this is just to devote one hour of your time to doing various bicycle exercises). The only thing to remember is that all heavy and exhausting exercises should be absent from this list, since doing them can only make things worse.

If the cause of the crunch is hormonal disorders (most often diagnosed in women), then the treatment consists in the use of HRT (hormone replacement therapy). It is usually prescribed by an endocrinologist.

Crunch in the joints in children

As you know, children have a somewhat different structure of the joints from adults. It is all the more important to learn from a teenager. There are several reasons for this:

• Connective tissue pathology. Such children are characterized by increased flexibility of the joints. If this child has a crunch and clicking in the joints, then this is considered the norm. The only thing is that these children are often diagnosed with heart disease. That is why, when identifying this pathology, it is recommended to be under the control of cardiologists. Ideally, of course, it is best to diagnose the functioning of the heart, which in the future will allow you to choose the most appropriate lifestyle, which will minimize the exacerbation of a possible disease.
• Short-term joint hypermobility. Its cause is considered to be the uneven development of tissues and joints, which is quite common for adolescents, since their articular apparatus, in essence, has not yet matured. Therefore, it is quite natural that from time to time during the movement of the joints one can hear such characteristic sounds as a click or crunch. The only thing you need to pay attention to is that these phenomena are completely painless and do not cause discomfort.

Preventive actions

When knees crunch, how to treat such a condition is usually prescribed by a specialist. But there are also some measures aimed at reducing or completely eliminating this phenomenon.

Let's start, of course, with gymnastics, which you need to do every day. The most common exercises include:

• Squats. It is desirable to do them from 2 approaches, ten times each. In addition, you should linger a little in a sitting position for a few seconds.
• Pulling the legs up to the chest area.
• Exercises "bike" and "scissors".
• In addition, various lotions, creams and taking a hot bath have proven themselves quite well, especially after a hard day's work.
• Another remedy that has received good reviews is a compress, which includes orange juice and vegetable oil.

But once again we remind you that before applying all of the above means, it is best to contact a specialist.

Ideally, the knee joint should not crackle when bent or make any other sounds. For no reason, the knees do not crackle and click, but if you feel any sounds when moving, it is necessary to find out why the knees crackle and hurt. This can be a symptom of the development of diseases, and if not treated, lead to complications in the future. Let's see why the knees crunch.

Why do my knees crackle and hurt?

Often in training at the time of the warm-up, doing squats, many hear a crunch in the knees. Often, crunching in the knee area and other joints disappears after warming up exercises, but if the sounds do not stop and the knees hurt, you should pay attention to the problem.

Any extraneous sounds when bending the limbs, squatting, moving the joints indicate an overload, which can manifest itself in:

• weight lifting;
• too much sweet, salty and spicy food;
• heels over 5 cm;
• excess body weight;
• sedentary lifestyle.

Other factors that cause clicking of the knee joint:

• knee injuries;
• age-related pathologies;
• infectious diseases;
• imbalance of metabolic processes;
• arthrosis;
• congenital pathologies.

A crunch in the joints in infants is not always a harbinger of disease, but is due to physiology, and in a teenager it can signal the development of Bechterew's disease, osteoarthritis and polyarthritis.

Doctors insist that treatment is necessary only if the joints hurt during the crunch, in other cases, special therapy is not required. It is enough to reduce the load and follow a diet. For example, a crunch in the knees is observed among fans of strength training in the gym, bodybuilders. After all, squatting with a barbell, when flexion and extension of the knees occurs under an increased weight of up to 100 kg, leads to the destruction of cartilage and injuries to the knee joints.

Most causes of crunchy knees are treated by removing the stress factor. That is, a healthy diet, moderate activity, weight control and the rejection of high stilettos - and you will forget about the crunch of the knee joints. Additionally, you can use medicinal baths and saunas.

Even if your work day requires constant sitting in one place, giving up the elevator, jogging in the morning or walking on the way home, limiting active squats and bending the knees during the warm-up will help to add activity. Such prevention will save you from the further development of joint disease, which would have to be treated with medication.

Therapeutic gymnastics from a crunch in the knees will allow you to give the necessary, but not too heavy load to the limbs, preventing the deposition of salts, strengthens the joint, develops its mobility.

Diet

• A diet for joints should not contain spicy, salty, sweet foods. If you are overweight, you should reduce the caloric content of the diet by reducing the consumption of carbohydrates and fats.
• Treatment with collagen and other chondroprotectors if the joints hurt.
• Experts recommend taking a supplement for joints with collagen and vitamins.

This combination of components restores cartilage tissue, strengthens the knee joint and activates the production of natural collagen in the body, and the joints hurt less. This dietary supplement is effective only if the crunch in the knee is not caused by arthrosis, the treatment of which will require more serious medications - chondroprotectors. These drugs include Chondroitin and Glucosamine. These substances are also contained in the connective tissue and their entry into the body from the outside. Purposefully acts on the restoration of cartilage tissue.

Sometimes the crunch of the knees is heard only after strong physical exertion - intense bending or squatting. Then it is enough to give the legs a temporary rest and take a hot bath, visit the sauna to ensure complete relaxation of the legs.

If the crunch is constant and the knees are very sore, a visit to the traumatologist is urgently needed. Perhaps you have joint pathology, a cracked patella, or a torn meniscus. X-ray and ultrasound will help to make an accurate diagnosis.

So, the methods of treating a crunch in the knees:

• exercise and activity;
• maintaining weight within the norm;
• bringing the diet back to normal, in accordance with the need to exclude too salty, sweet and spicy;
• chondrotherapy;
• taking anti-inflammatory drugs - nimesulide, diclofenac, ibuprofen.
• accompanying methods - bath with aromatic oils and herbs, foot bath.

In no case should any manipulations be carried out without consulting a doctor. It is possible that in addition to clicking in the knee, pain may occur. Then we are talking about pathologies of the position of the joint, and this condition requires the intervention of qualified traumatologists.

At the advent crunching and clicking in the knee joints most frequently complained by patients over the age of 50 years. In young people, such complaints are more rare and are usually associated with sports injuries, long exhausting workouts. In medical terminology, crunching in the joints is called crepitus. Crepitus in the knee can occur due to the rupture of air bubbles that are formed in the synovial fluid when performing movements in the knee joint, and is usually associated with a sedentary lifestyle. This condition is transient and is not considered a pathology. In the event of knee pathologies, the mechanism for the formation of a crunch consists in rubbing against each other of the articular surfaces or other elements of the joint. Crepitus in the knee can be either an isolated symptom or be accompanied by symptoms such as pain, swelling, and limited mobility.

One of the most common causes of crunching and clicking in the knee is injuries. Also, a common cause of a crunch in the knee joint is obesity, in which there is an excessive load on the knee joint, the structures of which begin to gradually collapse. Often, improperly selected shoes, especially those with flat soles or high heels, lead to a crunch in the knee joint, which contributes to the increased load on the knee joint. As a result, there is a gradual deformation of the articular cartilage.

Anatomy of the knee area

Anterior knee area

The following structures are located in the anterior region of the knee:

• fascia;
• tendons of the thigh muscles;
• patella.

Fascia
Fascia is a sheath of connective tissue. The knee area is covered by own and superficial fascia. Own fascia is a continuation of the wide fascia of the thigh. Under it is the vascular network ( knee articular network), which provides blood supply to the anterior sections of the knee joint. The superficial fascia consists of two sheets, between which are subcutaneous bags ( cavities that are lined with synovium and filled with synovial fluid).

Tendons of the thigh muscles
The tendon of the quadriceps femoris muscle passes through the knee area. It is thrown over the patella and is attached to the tibia and, at the same time, serves as a ligament of the patella.

Patella
The patella is the largest sesamoid bone ( located in the tendon) of the human skeleton. It is located in the thickness of the tendon of the quadriceps femoris. In the patella, the apex and base are distinguished. The posterior surface of the patella is adjacent to the patella surface of the femur.

Back of the knee

The following structures are located in the posterior region of the knee:

• skin and subcutaneous fat;
• fascia;
• tendons;
• popliteal fossa.

Fascia
The popliteal fascia is a continuation of the broad fascia of the thigh. It is dense, it has holes for the passage of nerves and blood vessels.

Tendons
The biceps femoris tendon attaches to the head of the fibula, and the semitendinosus tendon attaches to the tibia. The semimembranosus tendon inserts partly on the medial condyle of the tibia and partly on the capsule of the knee joint.

Popliteal fossa
The popliteal fossa is diamond-shaped and bounded by tendons. The bottom of the popliteal fossa is the capsule of the knee joint.

The popliteal fossa is limited by the tendons of the following muscles:

• semimembranosus and semitendinosus muscles;
• biceps femoris;
• lateral and medial heads of the gastrocnemius muscle.

Knee-joint

The ligaments that strengthen the knee joint are:

• patellar ligament;
• peroneal collateral ligament;
• tibial collateral ligament;
• oblique popliteal ligament;
• arcuate popliteal ligament;
• transverse ligament of the knee;
• anterior and posterior cruciate ligaments;
• posterior menisco-femoral ligament.

The following types of movements are possible in the knee joint:

• bending;
• extension;
• external and internal rotation ( rotation).

What structures can crackle in the knee?

Structures, the defeat of which can lead to the appearance of a crunch in the knee, are:

• distal femur;
• proximal tibia;
• patella;
• menisci;
• articular cartilage;
• joint capsule.

The main causes of a crunch in the knee

The main causes of a crunch in the knee are:

• gonarthrosis;
• rheumatoid arthritis of the knee joint;
• gouty arthritis of the knee joint;
• hypermobility of the knee joint;
• violation of phosphorus-calcium metabolism;
• obesity;
• chondromatosis of the knee joint;
• bursitis of the knee joint;
• dissecting osteochondritis;
• osteophytes of the knee joint;
• dislocation of the knee joint;
• fracture of the bones that form the knee joint;
• damage to the ligaments of the knee joint;
• tendon injury;
• chondromalacia of the patella.

Gonarthrosis as the cause of a crunch in the knee

The main cause of gonarthrosis is an imbalance between the mechanical pressure acting on the joint and regenerative ( restorative) tissue abilities.

There are the following types of gonarthrosis:

• Primary gonarthrosis, which can occur due to hormonal imbalance, genetic and metabolic disorders, circulatory disorders, etc.
• Secondary gonarthrosis arises from the action of intra-articular and extra-articular causes. Intra-articular causes include intra-articular trauma ( fracture), meniscal injury, meniscectomy ( knee meniscus surgery). An extra-articular cause may be damage to the knee joint in pathologies of the hip joint - dislocation, improperly performed arthrodesis ( an operation that is performed to ensure complete immobility of the joint).

During gonarthrosis, five stages are distinguished:

• 1 stage. There is a primary lesion of hyaline cartilage. Cartilage cells degenerate ( are destroyed) and cannot perform their functions ( cartilage growth and regeneration).
• 2 stage. Fissures appear in the cartilage, which may extend to the subchondral cartilage plate ( the layer of bone just below the cartilage). Fragments of cartilage appear that irritate the synovial membrane and lead to its inflammation ( synovitis).
• 3 stage. The synovial membrane is hyperplastic ( increases in size), marginal osteophytes appear ( growths on the surface of the bone).
• 4 stage. The subchondral cartilage plate is destroyed, which may be accompanied by the formation of cysts and thickening of the articular capsule.
• 5 stage. Characterized by the appearance of granulation tissue ( tissue that appears during the healing of inflammatory foci) in the affected area. Articular surfaces at this stage are significantly deformed.

The first symptom of gonarthrosis is pain in the knee joint. The pain increases when climbing stairs, walking, squatting, hypothermia and depends on meteorological conditions ( in damp and cold weather, the pain intensifies). In the initial stages of the disease, the pain bothers mainly in the morning, and gradually disappears during the day. When moving in the knee joint, a crunch is heard, associated with the friction of the affected articular surfaces against each other and often accompanied by a restriction of movement in the joint, which occurs due to the infringement of hypertrophied articular surfaces ( increased in volume and mass) synovial villi. Also, gonarthrosis is characterized by the development of contracture ( restriction of movement accompanied by an inability to fully flex or extend the leg at the knee joint), joint swelling. In the last stages of gonarthrosis, patients have difficulty walking.

Damage to the menisci as the cause of the crunch in the knee

Menisci can be damaged by direct or indirect action of a damaging factor on them. The most common causes are a sharp extension of the knee joint, jumping, a sharp turn of the lower leg inward or outward.

The main clinical manifestations of damage to the menisci of the knee joint are:

• Joint blockade - this is the resistance that appears when you try to unbend. Blockade is a temporary phenomenon and often appears when squatting, walking.
• Pain in the knee joint, which often appear when walking, increased stress on the joint. Particularly pronounced are pain when descending and climbing stairs.
• "click" symptom usually appears when walking and is associated with the “rolling” of the lower leg over an obstacle ( affected meniscus).
• Effusion ( accumulation of synovial fluid) in the cavity of the knee joint. Its appearance is associated with inflammation of the synovial membrane.
• Hemarthrosis (accumulation of blood in the cavity of the knee joint).

Rheumatoid arthritis of the knee

The causes of rheumatoid arthritis are unknown. It is believed that trauma, hypothermia, physical overstrain, etc. can be provoking factors.

In the first stages of rheumatoid arthritis of the knee, patients can perform daily activities, and in the last stages of movement are limited or completely impossible.

The main symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis of the knee are:

• Pain, which appears both during movement and during palpation ( feeling).
• Knee swelling associated with the accumulation of fluid in the joint cavity, as well as swelling of the periarticular tissues.
• Morning stiffness in the joints, the severity of which depends on the severity of the disease.
• Deformation ( violation of the form) knee joints.
• Contracture of the knee joint- this is a limitation of movements in the knee joint due to its inflammation, which is manifested by resistance when trying to make movements.
• Atrophy of the quadriceps femoris(malnutrition, structure and function of muscle cells).

Gouty arthritis of the knee

Gouty arthritis can have many clinical forms. The most common forms of this disease are acute and chronic gouty arthritis. This disease mainly manifests itself in the form of seizures, which most often appear at night and are accompanied by a very intense ( strong) pain in the joint , which is not stopped by painkillers . In the interictal period, the symptoms subside. When you try to carry out movements in the knee joint, a crunch appears, movements are limited. Swelling, hyperemia appears in the area of ​​the affected joint ( redness), local temperature increase.

Syndrome of hypermobility of the knee

A crunch in the knee is the main symptom of this disease. This symptom is often accompanied by joint pain. Pain usually appears during exercise. Swelling may appear in the area of ​​the knee joint due to the development of inflammation of the synovial membrane. A clinical examination reveals one of the main symptoms of the disease - excessive mobility.

Violation of phosphorus-calcium metabolism as a cause of a crunch in the knee

The main symptoms of impaired phosphorus-calcium metabolism are:

• crunching and clicking in the knee when moving;
• restriction of mobility;
• pain during movement, and with severe disorders and at rest;
• joint deformity.

Obesity

Obesity may be due to hypodynamia ( immobility), overeating, genetic predisposition, hormonal failure.

There are 4 degrees of obesity:

• 1 degree. Normal body weight is exceeded by 20 - 30%.
• 2 degree. Excess weight is 30 - 40%.
• 3 degree. Body weight exceeds the norm by 50 - 99%.
• 4 degree. Exceeding ideal body weight by 100% or more.

Chondromatosis of the knee

Chondromatosis can occur in the form of a stable and progressive form. With a stable form, 10-25 cartilaginous bodies are produced, and the pathological process stops there. The progressive form is characterized by the constant formation of cartilaginous bodies that accumulate in the joint and can completely cover the synovial membrane.

Chondromatosis of the knee joint is characterized by a unilateral lesion. Involvement of both knee joints is rare.

Symptoms of chondromatosis of the knee are:

• pain in the knee joint;
• crunch when moving in the knee joint;
• limited movement;
• frequent blockades;
• swelling of the knee joint.

Bursitis of the knee

The main clinical manifestations of bursitis of the knee joint are:

• pain in the knee area;
• swelling;
• limited movement;
• crunching when trying to move.

Dissecting osteochondritis as the cause of a crunch in the knee

This disease most commonly affects adults 20 - 40 years old), predominantly men. The causes of osteochondritis dissecans have not been fully elucidated. The main factors that can lead to the development of this disease are injuries, impaired blood supply to the knee area, constant excessive loads.

In the development of osteochondritis dissecans of the knee, there are 3 stages:

• 1 stage. Characterized by inflammation of the synovial membrane, accompanied by pain and swelling of the joint, which usually appear after exercise and disappear after rest.
• 2 stage. The pain becomes more pronounced and persists for a long time.
• 3 stage. The pain becomes constant. When the cartilage fragment is completely exfoliated, it can turn into a loose body and lead to blockade of the joint and the appearance of a crunch during movement.

Osteophytes of the knee joint

Dislocations of the knee joint

Dislocations of the knee include:

• Dislocation of the leg. Dislocation of the lower leg is a disease that is quite rare and is accompanied by displacement of the bones of the lower leg relative to the femur. This disease has a very severe course, since in addition to dislocation of the bones of the lower leg, the joint capsule ruptures, damage to the ligaments and articular surfaces, menisci, nerves and blood vessels occurs. With a dislocation of the lower leg, the direction of its displacement can be anterior, posterior, lateral ( lateral and medial), mixed. The most common is the anterolateral direction of the leg displacement. Immediately after the injury, there is a sharp pain, the joint is deformed. It is impossible to perform active movements, and it is dangerous to perform passive movements, as it is possible to damage the vessels or nerves of the knee. With a complete dislocation, the leg remains in a straightened position and is shortened. In subluxation, the leg remains in flexion and is not shortened.
• Dislocation of the head of the fibula occurs very rarely with rupture of the tibiofibular syndesmosis ( junction of the tibia and fibula). The most common cause is a fall on a bent knee. Dislocation of the head of the fibula can be complicated by damage to the peroneal nerve.
• Dislocation of the patella. Patellar luxation is usually caused by trauma or dysplasia ( violation of the development of an organ or tissue at the stage of intrauterine development or after birth) patella. Patellar dysplasia leads to its lateroposition ( location of the patella on the lateral condyle), which is manifested by underdevelopment of the external condyle of the thigh and patella, deformity of the knee joint. There are traumatic and habitual dislocation of the patella. Traumatic dislocation can be lateral, rotational ( rotation of the patella around a vertical axis) and vertical ( rotation of the patella around a horizontal axis with its introduction into the joint space). A habitual dislocation is a dislocation that occurs repeatedly. Even a minor injury can lead to it. Dislocation of the patella is accompanied by severe pain. The position of the limb depends on the direction of displacement of the patella. So, with a lateral dislocation, the leg is in a bent position, with a rotational dislocation, the leg is straightened. Movement in the knee joint is limited.

Fractures of the bones that form the knee joint

Fracture of the proximal tibia occurs about five times more often than fractures of other bones that form the knee joint. Almost always, fractures damage the soft tissues, the joint capsule. Displacement of bone fragments can lead to damage to the tibial nerve or the neurovascular bundle of the knee.

A fracture of the distal femur implies a fracture of the condyles. The most common cause is a fall from a height, an accident ( traffic accident), osteoporosis ( ). A condylar fracture may be intra-articular or extra-articular, depending on the location of the fracture line.

The most common cause of a patella fracture is a fall onto a bent knee or a direct blow to the front of the knee. Most often, a horizontal fracture of the patella occurs, which is due to the fact that the tendon of the quadriceps femoris muscle is attached to its upper part and, under the action of a traumatic factor, it pulls the patella up. As a rule, there is a displacement of fragments. Less common are vertical and multi-comminuted fractures of the patella.

Knee ligament injury

Ligament injury can lead to anterior, posterior, medial, or lateral joint instability. The type of instability depends on the location of the damaged ligament. In some cases, rotational instability occurs, which usually occurs when several ligaments are damaged at the same time.

Ligament damage is an indirect cause of a crunch in the knee. The crunch and clicks appear due to the fact that the normal anatomy of the joint is disturbed, and the load exerted on different parts of the joint is uneven. When the ligaments are torn, the joint wears out, it is damaged and deformed.

Knee tendon injury

Chondromalacia of the patella as the cause of a crunch in the knee

Which doctor should I contact if the knee crunches?

If a crunch appears in the knee, you can also contact the following specialists:

• family doctor;
• therapist;
• nutritionist.

The family doctor diagnoses crunching, which is more often associated with chronic, slowly progressive diseases of the knee joint. The therapist diagnoses the causes of a crunch in the knee associated with inflammatory diseases ( arthritis). A nutritionist should be consulted for obesity, which often contributes to problems with knee joints.

Diagnosis of the causes of a crunch in the knee

The main methods for diagnosing the causes of a crunch in the knee are:

• clinical examination;
• ultrasound ( ultrasound procedure) knee joint;
• x-ray examination of the knee joint;
• study of synovial fluid;
• arthroscopy of the knee joint;
• CT ( CT scan) knee joint;
• MRI ( Magnetic resonance imaging) knee joint;
• scintigraphy.

Clinical examination

The examination begins with an analysis of the patient's complaints. Complaints of a crunch in the knee are usually presented by patients over the age of 40, which is associated with age-related degenerative changes in the structures of the joint. Along with complaining of a crunch in the knee joint, patients complain of pain, discomfort, limited mobility, and morning stiffness in the knee joint.

When collecting an anamnesis, special attention should be paid to the presence of injuries and diseases of the musculoskeletal system. The doctor finds out during which movements a crunch appears in the knee ( flexion, extension, squatting, running, walking). It is also important to analyze the professional activity of the examined patient, since this problem is very common among athletes and representatives of other professions associated with heavy loads on the lower limbs. It is necessary to find out if a crunch in the knee is a sign of a hereditary disease ( the presence of the same symptoms in close relatives).

On examination, the following symptoms of knee pathology can be detected:

• swelling of the knee area;
• hematoma ( limited accumulation of blood in the subcutaneous tissue);
• knee deformity;
• symmetry of pathological changes;
• damage to the skin and soft tissues.

Auscultation in this case is carried out directly ( without the help of a stethoscope), during which the patient performs active or passive movements of the limb and a crunch or clicks are heard.

When determining the range of motion in the knee joint, active movements are first evaluated ( performed by the patient), and then passive ( performed with the help of a doctor). The volume of movements is determined using a special tool ( goniometer). When measuring the range of motion in the knee joint, the leg is initially in a straightened position.

General blood analysis

Blood chemistry

General urine analysis

Ultrasound of the knee joint

When visualizing the anterior and lateral sections of the joint, the patient lies on his back, and in order to better visualize the menisci, the doctor asks the patient to bend his knees. To visualize the posterior parts of the knee joint, the patient is asked to lie on his stomach.

Signs of knee pathology that can be detected by ultrasound are:

• Presence of effusion in the joint cavity.
• Synovial inflammation, which is accompanied by its thickening, proliferation ( overgrowth) synovial villi.
• Torn tendons and ligaments are displayed as a violation of their anatomical integrity of the ligament and rupture of the fibers.
• The defeat of the menisci. When the meniscus is damaged, there is a violation of the meniscus contour line, the presence of meniscus deformation, their fragmentation and degeneration.
• The presence of foreign bodies in the joint cavity can be with penetrating wounds, fractures.
• Presence of Becker's cyst, which looks like a cavity filled with liquid.
• Joint space narrowing can talk about synovitis, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis.
• Irregular contours of the joint (in inflammatory and degenerative diseases).
• thinning of hyaline cartilage commonly seen in osteoarthritis.
• Inflammation of synovial bags manifested by the presence of anechoic ( black color) or hyperechoic ( white color) zones.

X-ray examination of the knee joint

Radiological signs of knee pathology are:

• Changing the position of the bones observed with dislocations of the knee joint, fractures of the femur and bones of the lower leg, as well as congenital anomalies of the musculoskeletal system.
• Change in bone structure occurs, as a rule, with bone fractures and is expressed in the interruption of contact between the bone beams ( areas of cancellous bone). Changes in the bone structure also include its restructuring - osteoporosis ( decrease in bone density), osteosclerosis ( increased bone density).
• Joint space narrowing observed in dystrophic and inflammatory lesions of the knee joint. The narrowing can be uniform and uneven. Uneven narrowing of the joint space is usually observed in arthritis.
• Foci of destruction appear on the x-ray as dark or bright areas.
• fracture line. The fracture line looks like a light strip with jagged edges. The fracture line indicates the exact location of the fracture ( intraarticular, extraarticular). Also evaluate the direction and extent of the fracture line.
• Displacement of bone fragments can be transverse, longitudinal, lateral, angular.
• Cartilaginous inclusions and chondromic bodies of various shapes and sizes are observed with chondromatosis.

X-ray examination is also carried out after reduction of dislocations, treatment of fractures in order to monitor the effectiveness of treatment.

The study of synovial fluid

In the pathology of the knee, changes in the following indicators can be detected:

• Color. The yellow color of the synovial fluid can be with osteoarthritis, the bloody color is characteristic of traumatic lesions of the knee joint. In inflammatory diseases of the knee joint, the color of the synovial fluid can vary from yellow to brown.
• Transparency. In osteoarthritis, the synovial fluid is translucent, in inflammatory diseases it is cloudy, translucent.
• Sediment. In rheumatoid arthritis, a sediment in the synovial fluid is often found, formed from necrotic areas of the synovium and resembling rice grains ( "rice bodies").
• Cytosis ( number of cellular elements). Normally, cytosis is 0.1 - 0.5x10 9 / l. With degenerative diseases and traumatic lesions of the knee joint, this indicator can reach 2 - 3x10 9 /l, and with inflammatory diseases up to 80x10 9 /l.
• Microscopic examination. Microscopic examination of native ( unpainted) smear can be detected ragocytes ( granular cells), the number of which in rheumatoid arthritis can reach half of the total cellular composition of the synovial fluid. In gouty arthritis, uric acid crystals may be found in a native smear.
• non-cellular elements. In traumatic lesions, fragments of cartilage and damaged ligaments can be found in the synovial fluid.
• Cell composition. The predominance of one or another cellular element in the synovial fluid helps in clarifying the diagnosis and determining the severity of the pathology. In inflammatory diseases, synovial fluid is dominated by neutrophils, in degenerative diseases - by lymphocytes. Thus, in rheumatoid arthritis, the number of neutrophils can reach 90%, in osteoarthritis, the number of lymphocytes can reach 70%.

Arthroscopy of the knee

Pathological changes that can be detected during arthroscopy of the knee joint are:

• meniscus tear;
• the presence of chondromic bodies;
• cartilage damage;
• dissecting osteochondritis;
• damage to the cruciate ligaments;
• synovial inflammation.

CT scan of the knee

With computed tomography, layered images of the area under study are carried out, which allows for a complete assessment of the state of the knee area.

With the help of CT of the knee joint, the following pathological conditions can be detected:

• bone fracture;
• inflammation of the synovial membrane;
• arthritis;
• osteoarthritis;
• the presence of foreign bodies in the joint cavity;
• anomalies in the development of the joint;
• dissecting osteochondritis.

CT of the knee joint can be performed using contrast agents, which improve the visualization of the state of blood supply to the area under study.

MRI of the knee

No special preparation is required before an MRI of the knee joint. The patient may be given a sedative if they are claustrophobic ( fear of closed space), since during the procedure the subject is placed in the tomograph tunnel. MRI is contraindicated in patients with prostheses and implants with metal parts.

MRI of the knee joint allows diagnosing the following pathological conditions:

• swelling of the periarticular tissues;
• the presence of effusion in the joint cavity;
• stretching of ligaments and tendons;
• damage to the patella;
• Baker's cyst;
• hemarthrosis;
• synovitis;
• bursitis.

Scintigraphy

What to do so that the knees do not crunch?

In case of traumatic injuries of the knee, it is necessary to immobilize the limb, that is, to carry out transport immobilization using special splints to fix the limb or other improvised structures.

Treatment of pathologies leading to a crunch in the knee should include the following main components:

• dieting;
• drug treatment;
• surgery;
• restorative treatment.

Compliance with a diet with a crunch in the knee

Diet plays an important role in the fight against obesity. In each case, the diet should be selected individually by a nutritionist. Along with the diet, for successful results, it is necessary to resort to physical exercises. Following a diet without first consulting a doctor is fraught with complications.

To normalize phosphorus-calcium metabolism, it is necessary to increase the amount of foods rich in easily digestible calcium and phosphorus in the diet. Such products are cheese, milk, cottage cheese, fish products.

Drug treatment of crunch in the knee

Due to the fact that there are many causes of a crunch in the knee, different groups of medicines can be used in the treatment.

Drug treatment of the causes of a crunch in the knee

Surgical treatment of crunch in the knee

The main types of surgical interventions that are performed to treat knee pathologies are:

• arthrotomy of the knee joint;
• tenorrhy;
• knee arthroplasty;
• therapeutic puncture of the knee joint;
• synovectomy;
• synovcapsulectomy;
• arthroscopy;
• osteosynthesis;
• meniscectomy;
• ligament injury treatment.

The knee joint is practically not covered by muscles, so access to it is not difficult. Access can be anterior, posterior and parapatellar ( on the side of the patella). The most gentle is the parapatellar incision, in which the ligamentous apparatus is minimally damaged.

Tenoraffia
Tenorrhaphy is a surgical intervention that is performed to stitch the tendons together. The operation is indicated for incised, stab wounds with damage to the tendons. During the operation, tendon sutures are applied, and then the limb is immobilized in order to provide conditions for normal fusion. The immobilization period usually lasts 4-6 weeks. The sutures must be reliable, not contribute to disruption of the blood supply to the tendon, and maintain a smooth surface of the tendons.

Knee Arthroplasty
Arthroplasty is a type of surgical intervention aimed at restoring the structure and function of a joint. Knee arthroplasty is often prescribed for knee pathologies accompanied by contracture.

Knee arthroplasty is performed in several stages:

• arthrotomy of the knee joint;
• separation of articular surfaces
• joint modeling ( the configuration of the articular surfaces is re-formed);
• immobilization of the limb with a plaster splint or skeletal traction;
• development of the joint using a set of exercises.

Therapeutic puncture of the knee joint
Therapeutic puncture of the knee joint is prescribed for the introduction of drugs into the joint cavity, as well as for the evacuation of pathological contents from the joint cavity ( with long-term healing hematomas, hemarthrosis), which helps to reduce intra-articular pressure.

Before performing a puncture, it is necessary to make sure that the pathological fluid is in the joint cavity, and not in the periarticular structures ( bursitis). During the puncture, the patient is in the supine position with the limb extended at the knee joint. The needle is inserted at the inner or outer edge of the base of the patella to a depth of 3-4 cm. For better aspiration of the contents of the joint, they press on the patella. After puncture, an aseptic ( sterile) bandage.

Synovectomy
A synovectomy is a surgical procedure in which the synovium of the knee joint is removed. This operation is usually prescribed for rheumatoid arthritis, when the inflammation of the synovial membrane does not go away with the help of drug treatment. The removed synovium is replaced with a synthetic one. The operation is performed with severe inflammation of the synovial membrane with the growth of its villi. Synovectomy is contraindicated in exacerbation and a high degree of activity of the pathological process.

Synovcapsulectomy
A synovcapsulectomy is an operation during which the synovial membrane and capsule of the knee joint are removed. This operation is prescribed in the late stages of arthritis of the knee joint with a total pronounced lesion of the synovial membrane, involvement of the joint capsule in the pathological process.

Arthroscopy of the knee
Knee arthroscopy is one of the most frequently performed knee surgeries. It is an effective method of endoscopic surgery. The operation is performed using an arthroscope, a video system, and various instruments. Anesthesia can be local, spinal or general. The choice of the method of anesthesia is carried out by the attending physician together with the anesthesiologist, based on the patient's condition, the severity of the disease. Depending on the location of the pathological site, the place of arthroscopic access is chosen ( lateral, medial, parapatellar).

Arthroscopy can be performed with lesions of the meniscus, osteoarthritis, damage to the ligaments of the knee joint. During the operation, the joint is constantly supplied with saline from a reservoir, which provides better visualization of the joint cavity due to changes in intra-articular pressure, as well as constant washing of the joint cavity. The operation is minimally traumatic, recovery is as fast as possible.

Osteosynthesis
Osteosynthesis is a surgical intervention that is performed with the aim of repositioning ( comparison) bone fragments at a fracture. The operation is performed using various fixing devices ( screws, plates). Fixation can be done with splinting and compression. When splinting, the fixation of fragments is carried out due to the transfer of the load to the tire. Compression is carried out using special tightening screws. Fragments are fixed in the correct position. Fixation of bone fragments continues until their complete union. Osteosynthesis can be intraosseous, extraosseous and transosseous.

Meniscectomy
A meniscectomy is the surgical removal of the meniscus of the knee. Meniscectomy can be complete or partial. This operation can be performed with open access to the knee joint or using endoscopic access. In an open operation, a layer-by-layer opening of the articular cavity is performed, the meniscus is removed, and then the tissues are sutured in layers. Open meniscectomy is performed quite rarely due to the fact that it is more traumatic. The most commonly performed is endoscopic meniscectomy, which is less traumatic and does not require a large incision. Small incisions are made in the knee area up to 0.5 cm). A miniature video camera connected to a monitor is inserted through one incision. Through the second incision, the instruments necessary for the operation are inserted. During the operation, fluid is injected into the joint cavity, which provides visualization of the joint cavity.

Treatment of ligament injury
Surgical treatment is performed with a complete rupture of the ligaments of the knee joint. The torn ligament is sutured. In severe cases, autoplasty is performed ( using grafts from the patient's own tissues) or alloplasty ( with synthetic tissue grafts) links. After the operation, the limb is immobilized for 4-6 weeks.

Rehabilitation treatment for a crunch in the knee

To restore the functions of the joint, the following methods are prescribed:

• exercise therapy. Therapeutic exercise is an integral step in the treatment of knee pathologies, however, its use should be rational and timely, since too early start of physical activity can lead to even more tissue damage, and a late start of exercise is fraught with problems with the restoration of knee joint functions.
• Physiotherapy. Physiotherapy is the use of physical factors for therapeutic purposes. The physiotherapeutic methods used in the fight against the causes of a crunch in the knee include electrophoresis ( administering drugs with an electric current), massage, thermal treatments. The use of these methods in combination allows achieving good results.
• Swimming has a positive effect on metabolic processes in the body. The undeniable advantage of swimming with knee pathologies is the lack of load on the knee joint, unlike other sports.

Features of a crunch in the knee

Why do knees crackle when unbending and bending?

Such a crunch can be physiological ( with a sedentary lifestyle) and pathological ( in diseases of the knee). A pathological crunch during flexion and extension is formed due to the friction of the affected articular surfaces. This is usually associated with deformation of the articular cartilage, inflammation of the synovial bags of the knee joint.

Why does the knee crackle when squatting?

In the presence of a pathology of the knee, this exercise leads to mechanical irritation of the components of the joint, which leads to inflammation of the synovial membrane, as a result of which the nutrition of the articular cartilage is disturbed. As a result, the cartilage is destroyed, the articular surfaces are damaged and they rub against each other. Pathologies that are accompanied by a crunch when squatting are ligament damage, osteoarthritis, arthritis, and meniscus injuries.

Why does the knee crackle and hurt?

The mechanism of pain and crunch in the knee, as a rule, consists in a violation of the congruence of the knee joint, thinning of the hyaline cartilage, as a result of which the articular surfaces rub against each other, which is accompanied by a crunch and pain and sensations. Crunching and pain usually appear when performing various movements. These symptoms may appear in the morning immediately after waking up or in the evening after prolonged stress on the joint.

Why does a child's knee crackle?

A crunch in the knee in a child may appear as a result of the following pathological conditions:

• Congenital pathologies. Congenital pathologies in which a crunch in the knee may appear may be developmental disorders of bones and joints, impaired collagen synthesis, varus ( O-shaped) and valgus ( X-shaped) deformity of the lower extremities.
• Knee joint injuries in childhood can lead to serious damage to it with deformation due to the fact that bones and joints are more fragile in childhood. The most common knee injury in children occurs during a fall. In newborns, injuries can be generic, that is, occur during childbirth.
• Deficiency of certain elements in the diet. Elements such as calcium, phosphorus, vitamin D play an important role in maintaining the normal state of bones and joints. Vitamin D deficiency leads to the development of rickets, which is manifested by damage to the bones, joints, nervous system, and muscles. Violation of phosphorus-calcium metabolism leads to increased fragility of bones, disruption of their development.
• Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis is a joint disease that affects children. The causes of this disease have not been elucidated. The mechanism of development of juvenile rheumatoid arthritis is the defeat of the immune system, which begins to perceive the body's own tissues as foreign, damaging them. The disease is characterized by inflammation of the synovial membrane of the joint, excessive accumulation of synovial fluid in the joint cavity, destruction of the articular cartilage. The main clinical symptoms are joint pain, crunching and clicking when moving, swelling of the knee area.
• Osteoporosis is a pathological condition that is characterized by a decrease in bone density, as a result of which the bones become very fragile. Osteoporosis in children can be congenital as a result of intrauterine development disorders and acquired due to malnutrition of the child, taking certain medications.

Why do knees crack when climbing stairs?

• Gonarthrosis is a degenerative disease that becomes more common with age. With gonarthrosis, there is a violation in the synthesis of synovial fluid, as a result of which the articular cartilage becomes unable to withstand mechanical stress. Gradually, the destruction of the hyaline cartilage of the knee joint occurs, and then the bones are also affected. The crunch appears as a result of the destruction of the structures of the joint.
• Meniscus injury. Meniscal injury is one of the most common knee injuries. In most cases, the inner meniscus is damaged, which is due to the fact that it is inactive. When a meniscus is torn, its part can move freely in the cavity of the knee joint and be infringed between the articular surfaces, causing a crunch, pain and blockade ( strong resistance when trying to move the joint), as well as contributing to the destruction of articular cartilage.
• Rheumatoid arthritis accompanied by inflammation of the synovial membrane with increased secretion of synovial fluid. Gradually, the destruction of hyaline cartilage occurs. The main symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis are pain and morning stiffness in the knee joints, swelling of the knee, crunching and clicking when moving.
• Damage to the ligaments of the knee joint. If the ligaments of the knee joint are damaged, the load exerted on the joint becomes uneven ( especially with unilateral ligament injury). The lesion of the ligaments is accompanied by clicks and a crunch on movement, pain on palpation and movement. Instability of the knee joint can also occur, which often occurs with a complete rupture of the ligaments.

Why do my knees swell and crack?

Most often, the knees swell and crackle in the following pathological conditions:

• Arthritis of the knee. Arthritis is an inflammatory joint disease characterized by pain in the knee, swelling and redness of the knee area. There is a violation of the functions of the joint, movements are accompanied by pain and a crunch in the knee. The knee is most commonly affected by rheumatoid arthritis.
• Damage to the meniscus of the knee joint. The most common is a meniscus tear. A meniscus tear can occur at the level of the anterior or posterior horn, the body of the meniscus. In this case, a section of the meniscus is torn off, which can lead to blockade of the joint. The most commonly diagnosed chronic damage to the menisci, accompanied by the destruction of the articular cartilage.
• Bursitis of the knee. With inflammation of the synovial bags of the knee joint, movements become difficult. Bursitis can appear as a result of injuries or inflammatory diseases of the knee ( rheumatoid arthritis, gouty arthritis). The most common is prepatellar bursitis, which is manifested by swelling just above the patella, pain and crunching when trying to make movements in the knee joint.
• Gonarthrosis. With gonarthrosis, age-related degenerative changes occur in the knee joint, that is, there is a gradual destruction of the structures of the joint. The risk of developing osteoarthritis increases with age. This disease is often accompanied by a crunch in the knee and pain, which initially appear with heavy loads on the joint, and then at rest.

Why do knees crackle after running?

A crunch in the knee after running can be caused by the following pathologies:

• Osteoarthritis of the knee ( gonarthrosis) . With gonarthrosis, there is a gradual destruction of the articular cartilage and other structures of the knee joint. In this disease, running is not recommended, as this can help accelerate degenerative processes.
• Sprain. At the microscopic level, a sprain looks like a complete or partial tear of the fibers. Sprains occur very often if a person runs without first warming up.
• Meniscus injury- This is a common pathological condition that is accompanied by a crunch in the joint during and after running.
• Bursitis of the knee. Bursitis is an inflammation of the synovial bags of the knee joint. Bursitis can occur as a result of excessive stress on the knee joint when running.
• Intra-articular free bodies. Intra-articular free bodies are called structures that move freely in the joint cavity. Such structures can be fragments of articular cartilage, menisci, torn ligaments, synovial villi. Some loose bodies can be over 1 cm in size. These structures lead to blockade of the joint, limitation of mobility. Crunch and clicks appear as a result of cartilage damage.

The knee joints are a complex mechanism by which a person can bend and unbend the legs, making movements. In addition, they perform the function of maintaining body weight. When changes occur in the articular connection, a person clearly hears a crunch or creak.

What to do if the knees crunch when bent, only the attending physician can tell after a detailed diagnosis and finding out the cause that caused the crunch.

Self-diagnosis in this case is impossible, since such symptoms can indicate both natural processes and pathological changes. Therefore, if you find a crunch and discomfort in the knee, you should seek the advice of an experienced orthopedist.

Causes of a physiological order

If the resulting crunch in the knee is not complemented by pain, then its appearance is caused by physiological reasons.

We list the factors that cause a crunch in the knees during flexion and extension:

1. Rupture of gas bubbles in the joint. All components of the joint need a "lubrication", the role of which is performed by a special synovial fluid. It contains various gases: carbon dioxide, oxygen and others. If a person makes a sudden movement of knee extension or flexion, the gas begins to bubble. And under the influence of pressure, it bursts. The sound of bursting gas bubbles, which resembles a loud click, and is heard by a person.
2. Special elasticity of the ligamentous apparatus. Most often, this feature is congenital, but it can also occur in people who are actively involved in sports. With high elasticity of the ligaments, the span of the joint increases during movement, which is why the sound of a crunch is heard in the knee joint.
3. Friction of the components of the ligamentous apparatus on the bone. Most often, friction appears in childhood, especially during puberty. Intensive bone growth during this period is notable for its unevenness, so there is a "bulging" of individual bone elements. Ligaments or tendons cling to these elements. These changes disappear on their own after the musculoskeletal system is fully formed.

These changes are not pathological and do not require treatment. However, if pain or discomfort joins the creaking sounds, you should definitely contact an orthopedist for a full examination. The associated pain syndrome indicates the development of pathological processes in the bone and articular system.

Causes of pathological changes

Pain and crunch in the knee are always a signal that pathological changes have begun in the articular tissue. Moreover, the following signs indicate the presence of diseases:

• Pain syndrome and characteristic clicks appear as a result of certain movements;
• Due to obvious discomfort in the area of ​​the knee joint, the range of motion is reduced.

Consider diseases in which a crunch in the knee during flexion or extension is one of the symptoms of pathological changes.

Gonarthrosis

In the course of the disease, the cartilage tissue in the knee ages rapidly, and due to excessive loads, it gradually completely collapses.

A distinctive feature of the disease is a sharp pain, aggravated after any physical activity.

In the absence of proper therapy, the inflammation process leads to a violation of motor activity and a clear limitation of the amplitude of leg movement.

Rheumatoid arthritis

Dangerous chronic infectious disease. May lead to disability. Most often, the disease is diagnosed in older women, which is associated with changes in hormonal levels during menopause.

The main symptoms of the disease are pronounced swelling and deformity of the joint. The pain intensifies at the moment of pressure on the joint or during the period of physical activity.

Gout

Despite the fact that gout is more often diagnosed in men older than 40 years, women suffer the disease much more severely.

A characteristic symptom of the disease is the accumulation of uric acid salts in the joint. The pain syndrome manifests itself most often at night, is characterized by great intensity and the impossibility of stopping even the most. Articular cartilage is destroyed or deformed, tophi (nodes) appear.

In the absence of adequate therapy, a complete loss of motor activity and subsequent disability is possible.

hypermobility syndrome

It appears as a result of a violation of protein metabolism, which, in turn, is caused by severe inflammation or malfunctions in the hormonal or neurological system.

Often this condition of the joints is the result of dislocations or sprains.

Damaged meniscus

Due to a sudden movement or mechanical impact on the knee, a meniscus tear is possible. During the diagnosis, the accumulated concentration of blood and intra-articular fluid is detected in the joint cavity.

Damage is accompanied by the following symptoms:

• Characteristic clicks during movement;
• Swelling of the joint;
• Hyperemia.

It will depend on the location of the break. In case of trauma to the avascular zone, treatment is carried out only surgically.

Osteoporosis

When squatting, the knees crunch during the development of osteoporosis.

The disease is caused by a deficiency of phosphorus and potassium. The following causes contribute to the development of osteoporosis:

• Hormonal imbalance;
• Diseases of the gastrointestinal tract;
• Pathological changes in the kidneys or liver, pancreas.

The range of motion of the leg is severely limited.

Bursitis

Bursitis is caused by excessive physical exertion, as well as numerous injuries of the knee joint.

The disease occurs due to the accumulation of exudate in the articular cavity.

Symptoms of the disease are pronounced:

• Hyperemia;
• Nausea;
• Strong pain;
• Extensive swelling;
• During movement, the joints creak;
• Prostration.

knee injury

The knee joint often causes a crunch and characteristic clicks.

With dislocations, damage is possible not only to bone or articular tissue, but also to nerve endings, which carries the danger of complete immobilization of the joint.

Crunch with such injuries is an additional symptom of damage. It is accompanied by severe pain, swelling, deformity of the joint.

Non-specific causes

There are a number of non-specific reasons why knees crunch when bent.

These causes cause changes in the articular tissue, which interferes with the full functioning of the joint.

1. Often a characteristic sound in the knee can be heard after a long stay in a static position. Lack of movement leads to, and a sharp change in posture - to the appearance of a crunch.
2. Improper nutrition with abundant consumption of salty, smoked and spicy foods leads to the deposition of salts in the joints, which also causes a crunch in the knees.
3. Excess body weight creates an additional load on the musculoskeletal system. The joints in this case suffer the most, so over time, their complete wear is possible.
4. With age, the nutrition of bone and joint tissues deteriorates.
5. Lack of natural regular load on the joints (physical inactivity, sedentary lifestyle).
6. Excessive physical activity.
7. In patients with diseases of the endocrine system, a concomitant symptom is a crunch in the knee, which manifests itself due to disorders in the articular and ligamentous tissue.
8. Previously migrated and .

When these causes are eliminated, unpleasant and painful symptoms will pass.

Diagnostic studies

Diagnosis of determining the cause of a crunch in the knees during extension and flexion consists of several stages. The first of these is visual inspection and palpation of the painful joint. After that, the doctor will get acquainted with the diseases that the patient has suffered, and hereditary predisposition to articular pathologies. A survey about the lifestyle and nutrition of the patient is mandatory.

After a visual examination, the doctor will prescribe the following diagnostic measures:

• Ultrasound diagnostics of the liver, gallbladder in order to identify pathological changes that disrupt the production of collagen and synovial fluid;
• Ultrasound of the knee joints;
• X-rays of atrophied or painful joints;
• Tomography;
• A blood test to check for the presence or absence of rheumatoid factor.

If necessary, conduct a study of the synovial fluid.

After a thorough and comprehensive diagnosis, the doctor prescribes appropriate therapy, the purpose of which is to eliminate the cause that caused the crunch.

Specificity of treatment

With a crunch, a complex treatment is prescribed, which consists of the following procedures:

• Taking medications that relieve internal inflammatory processes;
• The use of external, gels or;
• Ensuring the immobility of the sore leg;
• Change in diet;
• Dieting;
• Weight loss;
• Correction of motor activity;
• Treatment of concomitant chronic diseases;
• Reception of vitamin complexes;
• Appointment of a course of massage and physiotherapy exercises;
• The use of physiotherapy, mud baths.

If the disease is at an advanced stage, surgical intervention is prescribed.

Ointments with warming properties also relieve squeaks and crunches in the knee joint. Moreover, they increase blood flow, normalize vascular tone and activate cartilage nutrition.

After the pain syndrome is eliminated, it is important to regularly perform special exercises. With their help, muscle tone is maintained, they are the best preventive measure to prevent deformation of the articular tissue.

You need to start exercise therapy under the guidance of an instructor. After that, you can practice on your own, having received the appropriate instruction.

Rational nutrition is of great importance for restoring the lost functions of the knee joint. Fatty, smoked, spicy and sweet dishes should be excluded from it. Preference should be given to products containing large amounts of vitamins, hyaluronic acid and collagen.

Preventive measures

In order to avoid long-term treatment and the recovery period after it, it is enough to follow a number of simple but very important rules:

• Avoid increased load on the area of ​​the lower extremities, alternate periods of active physical activity with rest;
• Avoid prolonged stay in a static position;
• Wear clothing suitable for weather conditions to avoid hypothermia of the joints;
• In the presence of hereditary factors of predisposition to deformity of the knee joints, wear orthopedic shoes regularly;
• After injury to bones, joints or tendons, limit active sports;
• Avoid heavy lifting;
• Control your weight;
• Swimming: This sport is best for strengthening joints and promoting overall health.

Subject to all medical recommendations, it is possible to eliminate the crunch and its accompanying symptoms in the knee joints in 2-3 weeks. In some cases, longer treatment will be required. However, if you consult a doctor in time and find out the cause of pathological changes, there is a chance to completely get rid of unpleasant symptoms.