Noisy Joints: What’s Normal and What Isn’t
Our bodies make many strange sounds throughout our lives. We’ve all experienced cracks and pops, whether in our knees, necks, or wrists; these pops can be very loud and lead to joint concerns. Fortunately, they usually are normal and don’t call for worrying.
However, there are some cases in which noisy joints warrant further investigation from a professional. Our medical fitness experts at Dynamic Fitness and Rehabilitation explore why joints are so noisy and signs that indicate it’s time to schedule an appointment.
Why Do Joints Pop and Crack?
There are many causes of noisy joints, also known as crepitus. These sounds tend to become increasingly frequent as you age, but they are rarely cause for worry.
Nitrogen Bubbles
One of the most common causes of joint cracking occurs as a result of nitrogen gas buildup in the synovial fluid. This fluid lubricates and protects the joints, but these gases can build up in pockets when the joint is not in use. Once the joint is set in motion, the gas bubbles “pop.” This is the alarmingly loud noise you are hearing!
During a Muscle Activation Technique session with our trainer, Maurice Harden, you may experience this kind of harmless clicking as your joints are mobilized.
Keep in mind, these pops should not be associated with pain! If you feel pain or inflammation along with popping, you may be dealing with one of the following conditions and should contact your provider.
Movement of Tendons and Ligaments
When you move a joint, tendons and muscles may slide over the bone, creating a snapping sound. Ligaments may also shift when rotating certain joints, such as the wrists, neck, or ankles. People with hypermobile joints tend to experience more cracking. In this case, it’s particularly important to focus on strengthening the associated stabilizer muscles.
In extreme cases, pops occur as a result of a ligament or tendon rupturing. You’ve likely heard of the dreaded “ACL” and “meniscus” tears. These pops will be associated with severe pain and swelling, and you should seek immediate medical attention for the best healing results.
If you experience a severe injury, Dynamic Fitness & Rehabilitation will be here to help you recover back to your full strength! Healing is always possible, especially with the right mindset and support team.
Arthritis
Some arthritic damage is a natural part of the aging process as some of your cartilage wears away and the joint surfaces become rougher. This results in more noise from cartilage rubbing together as you bend, extend, or rotate joints.
Osteoarthritis (OA) is the type of wear-and-tear that happens over the years. It may start as simple crepitus but could turn into something more serious.
Fortunately, with proper strength training and rehabilitation, you can provide support to the joints and prevent further degeneration! We always remind our patients that arthritis is never a sentence to be miserable for the rest of your life.
That being said, it’s important you take action, literally, to prevent the issue from worsening.
Signs You Should See a Professional
Serious discomfort when cracking a joint is a good indicator that something isn’t quite right. A tendon snapping into place may hurt briefly, but if it lasts longer than a few months, you should reach out to a professional ASAP.
Get checked out if:
You feel constant pressure in a joint, especially after a fall or car accident
You see or feel swelling – there can absolutely be inflammation that isn’t visible on the surface, but you will know it’s there
Cracking is constant and occurs each time you position your joint a certain way – it may not hurt in the moment but could eventually lead to pain that is more difficult to manage
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Listen to Your Body with Dynamic Fitness and Rehabilitation
If you experience any of the above symptoms, it’s possible you just have muscular imbalances that are entirely fixable. Through manual therapy techniques, lifestyle changes, and a training program curated for your unique body, you can get back to living a pain-free, active life!
Our experts want to help you feel your best. Schedule your evaluation today.