As an ex-patient of a knee injury, I think it's best for you to consult an orthopedic for a proper diagnosis (scans). Do not go for operation/surgery (if suggested by the Dr) yet because not all injury requires surgery. I made a mistake of going under the knife too soon before exploring other method like chiro. Now I'm under chiro therapy and it's improving.

How old are you? After you squat, is the pain/discomfort during the squat or after?

Orthopedic specialist's consultation fee is not $. It's those MRI and CT scans which are $. MRI should be RM700-800 depends on location.

What happened to your knee?