Elbow joint pain - pls advise

[rose2boys]

After doing a few push ups, I notice a sharp pain in my left elbow joint area, kinda like a cracking or popping, when I get about halfway down. It is alleviated somewhat if i go to knee position, but I'm afraid that's not working my chest/core enough.

I find myself putting more weight on my right side to compensate. Not sure what to do...is it my arm position??

Cathe or any knowledgeable person: help.