Do you ever find yourself going about your day when suddenly, your knee makes a cracking sound? It’s easy to dismiss it as a strange quirk, but you might also find yourself searching online to figure out what could be wrong.
Occasional knee pops and cracks are usually not a cause for alarm. Joints often make noises, and the knees are no exception, especially when you bend down or stand up. “Infrequent knee pops and cracks are quite common, especially in younger people,” explains Dr. Nancy White, a sports medicine physician. “When you hear that ‘pop,’ it’s often because your kneecap has shifted slightly out of its normal position and is now moving back into place. You can actually feel the movement happening.”
However, if knee cracking is accompanied by pain or swelling, it’s important to get it checked by a healthcare professional specializing in sports medicine. Frequent knee popping or cracking is also a sign that you should seek medical advice.
“Ignoring it could lead to your knee condition worsening,” Dr. White cautions. “A doctor can recommend preventative measures, such as exercises to improve strength and flexibility.”
What is Knee Crepitus?
If your knee sounds like it’s filled with Rice Krispies, with a distinct crackling or grinding sensation, you’re likely experiencing knee crepitus. This can be an early indicator of osteoarthritis behind the kneecap.
“Knee crepitus is primarily caused by a condition called patellofemoral dysfunction,” says Dr. White. In simpler terms, this means your kneecap isn’t moving smoothly up and down as it should.
“There’s cartilage on the back of your kneecap and on the front of your thigh bone. The cartilage on the thigh bone has a groove that allows the kneecap to glide smoothly in a floating motion,” Dr. White explains. “If this cartilage is worn down and inflamed – a hallmark of osteoarthritis – the kneecap can’t glide smoothly, resulting in knee crepitus.”
If you’re experiencing knee crepitus, especially if it’s accompanied by pain, it’s advisable to consult a sports medicine physician or primary care doctor. They can recommend various treatments, including physical therapy and cortisone injections.
Still unsure if your noisy knees are something to worry about? When in doubt, it’s always best to contact your doctor. The sooner your knee is examined, the sooner you can take steps to prevent any potential issues from getting worse.
For more information about orthopedic conditions or to find a healthcare provider, please visit henryford.com/ortho.
Dr. Nancy White is a sports medicine physician at Henry Ford Health, practicing at Henry Ford Medical Center–Novi and Henry Ford Medical Center—Bloomfield Township.
