Can PFPS cause a creaking sound in knee?

[mil7083]

anyone? i could really use some help

[PhysioPete]

anyone? i could really use some help

First thing, the creaking feeling (crepitus) doesn't actually relate to the condition of the joint or cartilage. I wouldn't put too much emphasis on it - some healthy knees do it, some knees don't. It's not a sign of arthritis. The "looseness" of the patella can also be just a natural variation. It doesn't relate to how it functions so patella mobility at rest can also be ignored.

Re: your comment about osteoarthritis, it's a long process that happens over decades. It relates to the condition of the osteochondral surface in the knee. Unfortunately your past history means that you're at risk of structural changes to the surface, but it doesn't mean that your knees will suddenly decline.

The ache and pressure you feel on squatting and stairs may be related to cartilage irritation - anything from abnormal loading or softening of the surface can cause it. I also sounds like it's triggering an acute inflammatory response (due to the redness and inflammation).

Overall, strength training and controlled return to full loading sorts this out in a vast majority of cases. Running shoes can also make a difference, with cushioned shoes requiring less knee flexion and patella loading. Occasionally meds can assist with the training but they shouldn't be used in isolation just to reduce the symptoms.

Hope that helps.