Which injury is indicated by a feeling of a pop in the knee when stopping or cutting, along with joint line tenderness and anterior translation?

The sensation of a pop in the knee during activities such as stopping or cutting, combined with joint line tenderness and anterior translation, is highly indicative of an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury.

When the ACL tears, it often causes a distinctive popping sound or sensation at the time of injury, especially during dynamic movements that involve changes in direction. The anterior translation refers to a feeling that the knee is sliding forward, which results from the loss of stability due to the compromised ACL. This ligament plays a crucial role in controlling the forward motion of the tibia (shinbone) relative to the femur (thighbone), particularly in pivoting motions common in sports. Additionally, joint line tenderness might occur as a result of associated injuries or damage to other structures in the knee, but the combination of the popping sensation and the anterior translation strongly suggests an ACL injury.

The other injuries mentioned are characterized by different symptoms. Meniscus tears can result in joint pain and swelling, but they typically do not involve an audible pop in the same way. Patellar tendonitis is more related to pain in the front of the knee and does not typically produce the symptoms described. Collateral ligament strains may cause localized pain on the sides of the knee, but they