Knee/Leg pain

Hi,

For as long as I can remember now my left knee will click/pop when I bend down/walk down stairs etc.
Often it feels just a little uncomfortable and I have the bad habit of clicking it on purpose, but I'm not sure if that really makes it feel any better.
I've noticed lately when sat down for extended periods (like at a cinema) where I can't stretch it out the discomfort is very noticeable and irritating, but there's no actual pain.

However as of the last couple weeks something I am concerned about is if I really crouch and bend my knees (like right to the floor, but not actually kneeling) and stay there for more than a little while I do have a problem.
When I stand back up it does hurt and I get a pain around the back of my leg in the knee area and I can't put any weight on it for about 30 seconds.

I know I should probably go see someone about this, but in the meantime can anyone shed some light on what the problem might be?

Thanks.

[S. Kaul, MD]

Hi there!

Well, without a clinical evaluation it would be difficult to determine the cause of your symptoms. Possibilities that may need to be considered include patellar dislocation, chondromalacia, loose bodies, injuries to internal knee structures, degeneration, growths/ masses etc. I would suggest getting this evaluated by an orthopedician for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate management.
Hope this helps.

Take care!