Long ago, a knee that catches and locks was called a trick knee. A knee that catches and locks works fine most of the time, but occasionally has a sharp pain when it locks up.
Trick knees that don’t hurt and don’t cause any effusion (water on the knee) are common and don’t need surgery. Trick knees that hurt or cause effusions are likely damaging your weight bearing cartilage.
A torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) or a torn meniscus cartilage are the most common trick knees that need surgery. It is important to see your physician if your trick knee hurts and or swells.
Walker Wynkoop MD lives in Los Banos and is a Board-Certified Orthopedic Surgeon with 30 years experience. He works at Surgical Affiliates of California. Please email questions to: Doc@Wynmd.com.
