Do swelling, popping, and cracking occur in knees while running after ACL and PCL injury a month ago?

Question

Hello doctor,

I tore my ACL (anterior crucial ligament) and PCL (posterior crucial ligament), which are grade 2 injuries. The initial injury happened a month ago. The doctor said surgery would not be needed. I spent seven to ten days on crutches and began light resistance training, cycling, and walking. My rehabilitation has been going well, but I had to run and chase my dog, who got away yesterday. My knee immediately started swelling again, and every time I took a step, my knee popped and cracked. It did not pop and crack before during my recovery. I could walk on it fine after the initial swelling went down. I am concerned I may have further damaged my knee. Does it make sense that it is only popping and cracking because it is swollen, and when the swelling subsides, it should be more solid again?

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Your knee might have got a jerk while you are chasing the dog, as your weight is a little high as per your height. Due to previous ACL issues and weakness around the joint, there might be swelling in that area.

I would suggest applying an ice pack thrice a day for 15 - 20 minutes for three days, wearing a knee cap, and giving it a rest for two days. Doing gentle knee stretching in the evening will help reduce swelling and pain. Check for your calcium levels and take a calcium-rich diet. After three days, if you find no improvement, then I would suggest visiting a nearby physiotherapy clinic and taking ultrasound and laser therapy for a week.

Thank you. Stay safe.