Significance

• The kneecap is suspended in a network of muscles, tendons and ligaments, and serves as the "connector" for the upper and lower leg bones. It allows the legs to push, squat, twist and rotate. Because of the pressures it endures, it is very prone to injury.
  
  

Types

• There are many types of "popping" sounds in the knee that cause pain, and none of them are good. The ligaments can "pop" when they are stretched or broken; a tendon can "pop" when it ruptures; the kneecap can "pop" when it dislocates; and the kneecap can make "popping" sounds with motion if it is misaligned and grating back and forth on something it should be gliding over.
  
  

Diagnosis

• A proper diagnosis can be made only by an orthopedic doctor. You will need to have a medical examination along with X-rays and MRI imagery to determine the exact cause of your injury as well as the extent of the damage. No trainer or family doctor can give you a correct diagnosis.
  
  

Treatment

• Treatment might vary. It can range from physical therapy and bracing to surgery and permanent limitations. Often, the most conservative, non-invasive treatment is tried before surgery or other invasive methods.
  
  

Warning

• Do not ignore popping with knee pain, because this is a symptom of a serious problem. By ignoring it, you are daily causing more and more damage, and the longer you wait, the more likely surgery becomes. If you want to avoid surgery, see a knee specialist as soon as possible to figure out the cause and treatment of your problem.