HomeAnswersPhysiotherapyknee painCan a tear in the meniscus cause knee pain and a popping sound when I bend my knee?

Can MRI reveal the cause of pain and popping sound in an athlete's knee?

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The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Answered by

Sreenivasa Rao

Medically reviewed by

iCliniq medical review team

Published At November 26, 2022
Reviewed AtJuly 10, 2023

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I participated in a running race and developed knee pain. When the race finished, I was in pain, but the next day when I practiced, I experienced mild pain. Then in the next few days, the pain started returning every time I ran. Also, I had to stop running during my practice session because I had knee pain and could not run further. I went to a doctor and was told to undergo physical therapy because they said I strained my IT band. When I went there, I did some stretches suggested by them, and I used ice packs. Now I have another running season coming up, and I still have discomfort in my right knee. And I still hear popping sounds every time I bend my knee. Should I get an MRI to check for a tear in my meniscus?

Please help.

Answered by Sreenivasa Rao

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I went through your query and understood your concern.

You can undergo an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) to rule out lateral meniscal damage, which can get coupled with IT (iliotibial) band issues. I have seen cases like this where lateral meniscus was involved along with ITBFS (iliotibial band friction syndrome). It can occur due to overtraining. So, I suggest you to follow a few instructions mentioned below.

1. Do a lot of icing with ice packs frequently.

2. Keep your knee compressed with a compression bandage at night.

3. Use a foam roller on the outer part of the thigh.

4. Avoid excessive strain and running.

5. Massage gently over the butt, and IT band area, which will help you feel a gentle stretch.

6. You need to undergo rehabilitation to strengthen and prevent the recurrence of this issue.

I hope this was helpful.

Kindly follow up after three days.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Sreenivasa Rao
Sreenivasa Rao

Physiotherapy

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