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Weird ache in knee
The Sensation: I am experiencing a weird ache rather than a sharp pain.
The Location: The ache is specifically located in the dip on the outer-front side of my knee (the lateral parapatellar area).
A Feeling of Heaviness: The specific area that aches and dips inward feels somewhat heavy.
Crunching and Clicking Sounds: When I bend my knee, I hear a clicking or crunched-like sound.
Kneecap Looseness: My right kneecap feels very movable compared to my left kneecap.
Inward Collapse: When I put my right leg down first to bear weight, the knee automatically tries to go inwards.
Relief with Stretching: Doing stretching exercises makes the knee feel good and temporarily relieves the ache.
The Timeline: This has been happening for about the past month, beginning shortly after I abruptly stopped playing football daily around May 30th.
I have summarised my symptoms like this, should I go to ortho or physio doctor?. Help
Answers (4)
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Strengthen Gluteus medius & Maximus, quadriceps (specially VMO) and Core.
Next Steps
consult an Physiotherapist for detail assessment.
Health Tips
avoid deep squats and jumping.
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Based on your symptoms, this appears more consistent with patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) or patellar maltracking/lateral patellar instability, although other conditions such as a meniscal injury, IT band syndrome, or ligament laxity cannot be ruled out without a physical examination.
The inward collapse of the knee during weight-bearing (dynamic valgus), increased kneecap mobility, clicking sounds (crepitus), and relief with stretching suggest a possible muscle imbalance involving the quadriceps (especially VMO), hip abductors/external rotators, and surrounding soft tissues.
Since your symptoms have persisted for about a month and are affecting knee mechanics, you should undergo a detailed clinical evaluation.
Next Steps
Consult a Physiotherapist first for a comprehensive biomechanical assessment, gait analysis, patellar tracking evaluation, and muscle strength testing.
If there is significant swelling, locking, repeated giving way, or suspicion of structural injury, consult an Orthopaedic Surgeon, who may recommend X-rays or an MRI if indicated.
Until evaluated:
Avoid running, jumping, and deep squats.
Continue only pain-free stretching.
Begin supervised strengthening of the quadriceps (especially VMO), gluteus medius, and hip external rotators.
Ice the knee for 15–20 minutes after activity if sore.
Health Tips
Seek urgent medical attention if you develop severe swelling, inability to bear weight, true locking of the knee, recurrent dislocation of the kneecap, fever, or significant instability. Early physiotherapy often provides excellent outcomes for patellofemoral disorders and may prevent the condition from becoming chronic.
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Dr. Shefali Gandotra (PT)
Physiotherapist
20 yrs exp
Jammu
Please consult online for proper diagnosis and assessment. So that a complete tailored program of exercises can be suggested.
Next Steps
Check vitamin D levels
Health Tips
Avoid sitting at floor for a few days
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Dr. Afsa Rafiq (PT)
Physiotherapist
5 yrs exp
Srinagar
Keep track of whether the 'looseness' is getting worse or if there is any swelling.
Next Steps
Book an in-person assessment so the professional can watch you move and test your joint stability in real-time.
Health Tips
Temporarily modify activities that cause the 'inward collapse' or sharp pain
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Disclaimer : The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.