Health expert explains when to go see a GP for ‘clicky’ knees (Image: Getty)
A joint pain specialist has explained why certain people suffer from ‘clicky’ knees – and outlined six warning signs requiring medical assessment. Numerous people hear clicks or pops while walking or bending, and according to Fatema Contractor, osteopath at The Health Suite, it’s typically harmless.
However, there are occasions when noisy joints warrant investigation. Fatema said: “It can sound alarming, but knee clicks don’t always mean there is something wrong.”
She said it is often just as a result of harmless gas bubbles releasing inside the joint, reports the Mirror. “But pay attention if the clicking is accompanied by other symptoms,” she added.
In an important message to anyone affected by the common condition, Fatema shared six indicators that could suggest something more serious is occurring:
- pain or tenderness
- swelling
- locking or catching of the joint
- your knee ‘giving way’
- reduced movement
- change following an injury
She said: “If your knee clicks with pain or swelling, it can mean tracking or cartilage issues, and it’s worth having the knee properly assessed. Many people think the sound alone can indicate there is something wrong, especially if it’s particularly loud, but symptoms and how your knee functions tell us much more.”
Which exercises might help ‘clicky’ knees?
Fatema suggests step-ups and glute bridges to strengthen the knee region by enhancing lower-body strength and mobility. She said: “Strong hips help to protect weak knees. Step-ups are an effective exercise as they target the outer hips, glutes and lower body.
“Start by standing close to a step, and step up, making sure your knee is aligned over your foot and your pelvis stays level. Practice with good form before you progress to this exercise by adding weight with dumbbells.
“Glute bridges are also effective in strengthening the hip area, targeting your lower body and core. Lie with your back on your mat, your arms outstretched by your side, and your knees bent with your feet rooted to the floor.
There are some light movements that could help (stock image) (Image: Getty)
“Slowly raise your hips, bringing your glutes off the floor. When you reach the top, squeeze for a couple of seconds, then release and lower. Repeat this 10 times.”
She emphasised: “If any pain is severe or prolonged, it’s important to see an osteopath or a physiotherapist for a thorough assessment.”
When should you worry?
A meniscus tear, which involves a damaged piece of shock-absorbing cartilage becoming trapped within the joint, can be responsible for clicking knees. The meniscus may be torn through a sudden physical incident, such as a forceful twist, pivot, or abrupt change of direction, frequently occurring during sporting activities or an awkward misstep. It can also deteriorate and tear progressively over time as a result of age-related degeneration.
Knee osteoarthritis is a highly prevalent cause of clicking, cracking, and grinding sounds. The condition develops when deteriorated cartilage causes bones to grind directly against one another.
According to medical professionals, patellar misalignment ranks amongst the most common triggers of clicking knees, particularly in younger individuals or those who are physically active. Clinicians frequently describe this condition as patellar tracking disorder or patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS).
The problem arises when the kneecap fails to remain properly aligned during movement, generating friction that produces characteristic clicking noises.
