[soulchoice]

I would caution in just buying a neoprene brace so you can continue to play, if you dont want to avoid further damage. Neoprene braces are not very effective unless you get one with metal sides(for MCL, LCL, doesnt help ACL or PCL at all) If you are hearing a pop when you are planting, it could be you have torn or aggravated a ligament. It could be one of either LCL, MCL, PCL or ACL. Though from the description, I highly doubt it would be a PCL injury, as that is rare.

If it is an ACL or PCL injury, you would be better off with a CTI type brace, however it is very expensive.

I would go consult your Doc and get him to examine it. If he knows what he is doing, he may refer you to see a specialist to determine the damage. Unfortunately the only real way to diagnose the injury would be to get an MRI. Which can be a long wait(4 months) in the city, unless you are willing to shell out approx 750 and get it done at a private facility. An MRI can essentially tell you to what degree(Grade 1 to 3 tear diagnosis) your ligament has been damaged, which will determine the best way to cure the problem. It will also tell the DR on the state of every other problem you may have in the knee if not ligament.

No point starting physio unless you know what damage has been done to your knee. Diagnose the problem first, then fix it after(whether it be time off, physio or surgery).

There are several ways to strengthen your lower legs, and if you do have a minor ligament problem, many exercises are possible. For example, if it is a PCL injury, you would want to strengthen your quads(leg press, etc), as they will compensate your weakened PCL. It really depends on what injury you have occurred. However, if you have suffered a LCL, MCL or ACL grade 3 tear, surgery is really the only way to go. If it is PCL, then surgery is usually not reccomened. It really depends on what injury is diagnosed.