Why Knee Clicking, Catching, or Locking Happens — And When You Should See an Orthopedic Specialist

If your knee clicks, catches, or feels like it locks when you walk, bend, or stand up, you’re not alone. These symptoms are common—and while they’re sometimes harmless, they can also be early warning signs of an underlying knee problem that shouldn’t be ignored.

At Plano Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center, we regularly evaluate patients who come in worried about unusual knee sensations. Understanding what’s normal—and what’s not—can help you decide when it’s time to seek expert care.

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What Does Knee Clicking, Catching, or Locking Mean?

These sensations can feel different for each person:

• Clicking or popping: A sound or sensation during movement

• Catching: The knee feels like it momentarily gets stuck

• Locking: The knee cannot fully bend or straighten

Occasional clicking without pain can be normal. Persistent catching or locking—especially with pain or swelling—is not.

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Common Causes of Knee Clicking or Locking

1. Meniscus Tears

The meniscus is cartilage that cushions the knee joint. When torn, it can cause:

• Catching or locking

• Pain when twisting or squatting

• Swelling after activity

Meniscus tears are one of the most common causes of mechanical knee symptoms.

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2. Loose Bodies in the Knee

Small fragments of cartilage or bone can float within the joint, causing:

• Sudden locking

• Sharp pain

• A feeling that something is “moving” inside the knee

Loose bodies often require imaging and, in some cases, surgical removal.

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3. Cartilage Damage

Wear-and-tear or injury can damage the smooth cartilage that allows the knee to glide. This can result in:

• Grinding or clicking

• Pain with movement

• Progressive stiffness

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4. Ligament Injuries

Injuries to the ACL or other ligaments may cause instability along with clicking or catching, especially during sports or quick movements.

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5. Arthritis or Joint Degeneration

As cartilage thins, joint surfaces may not move as smoothly, leading to:

• Clicking sounds

• Aching pain

• Morning stiffness or swelling

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When Knee Clicking Is Not a Problem

Knee sounds may be harmless if:

• There is no pain

• There is no swelling

• The knee does not lock or give way

• Symptoms are occasional and improving

However, once symptoms become persistent or painful, evaluation is recommended.

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Signs You Should See an Orthopedic Specialist

You should schedule an evaluation if you experience:

• Knee locking that prevents full movement

• Repeated catching or instability

• Swelling after activity

• Pain lasting more than a few weeks

• Difficulty walking, squatting, or climbing stairs

Mechanical symptoms often indicate a structural issue that won’t resolve on its own.

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Why Early Evaluation Matters

Delaying care can lead to:

• Worsening cartilage damage

• Larger meniscus tears

• Longer recovery times

• Increased risk of surgery

Early diagnosis allows for more treatment options, including non-surgical solutions like physical therapy, injections, or activity modification.

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How POSMC Can Help

Our orthopedic specialists focus on identifying the exact cause of your knee symptoms using:

• Thorough clinical exams

• Advanced imaging when needed

• Personalized treatment plans

We prioritize non-surgical care first, while offering expert surgical options when necessary.

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Don’t Ignore Knee Clicking or Locking

If your knee feels like it’s catching, locking, or giving way, your body may be signaling a problem that needs attention. Early care leads to better outcomes and faster relief.

Schedule an orthopedic evaluation today to get answers—and get back to moving confidently.