Do your joints click, crack or grind when you move? These sounds are very common and, in most cases, harmless. While they can occur in any joint, they’re often more noticeable in areas such as the neck and knees, which can naturally cause concern.
Why joints make noises
The medical term for joint sounds such as clicking, popping or grinding is crepitus. These sounds can occur for several reasons:
Tiny gas-filled cavities can form in the fluid inside joints as pressure changes during movement.
Tendons and ligaments can make clicking or snapping sounds during normal movement.
Some people naturally have more flexible joints, which can sometimes contribute to these sounds.
Many people with pain-free joints experience clicking or popping sounds, suggesting that these noises alone don’t always indicate a problem.
Do noises mean arthritis?
Many people worry that joint noises mean arthritis. While joint sounds can sometimes occur alongside changes within a joint, they don’t necessarily indicate arthritis or mean it will develop. Having arthritis doesn’t always mean you’ll notice joint noises.
Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis and involves gradual changes to cartilage, bone and other tissues that support joints. These changes may sometimes contribute to a grinding or grating sensation during movement, and in some cases may be associated with noticeable joint sounds.
When to seek help
While joint noises are not usually a cause for concern, it is worth seeking advice if they occur alongside ongoing pain, swelling, reduced movement, weakness, or other changes that concern you. For neck-related noises, symptoms such as dizziness, numbness or loss of coordination should also be assessed.
We can discuss your concerns, assess your symptoms, and advise whether further assessment or referral may be appropriate.
