How many times have you woken up from a nights rest, or after a long amount of time of sitting that the only thing you hear is the snap-crackle-pop from a joint as you sit up, go to stand up or just move in general? Is this something that’s a cause for concern?
Well, to answer this question we need to dive in and talk about joints more thoroughly. A joint is a point where two bones make contact for the purpose of moving body parts, and the actual number of joints in any one person is estimated to be between 250 and 350 joints. When we move, and we hear and feel our joints crack, that cracking sound comes from our tendons or muscles moving over the joint. It also can be from the popping of nitrogen bubbles that’s normally found in the joint space. So to answer the question….Yes, our joints can and do make noises. You might hear your knuckles crack, your knees pop when you stand up, or your neck make noise when you turn your head; and though these noises may be a little disconcerting, most of the time it’s nothing to worry (to a certain point).
When Joint Noises may be signaling potential problems:
- A grinding or grating noise, called crepitus, can indicate arthritis. Arthritis is the process of the soft cushion of cartilage wearing down. Initially, the cartilage becomes rough, and as time goes on and the arthritic process continues, the cartilage can wear away completely. Both the rough cartilage and the rough ends of the bone make a cringing, grinding or grating noise as the joint moves and this is a sign of arthritis.
- Sometimes tendons near joints can rub over bony prominences. That’s why if you’re feeling pain when you crack your joints, it’s better to get checked out from your physician.
- Another sign of a potential problem is when the small lubricating sacs of fluid around joints, called bursa, can become inflamed and cause rubbing or snapping sounds.
If sounds emerging from joints aren’t causing any pain, loss of motion, swelling or weakness, they’re probably not serious. But, if any of these symptoms mentioned above accompany your joint sounds, you should check with a physician . Your doctor will evaluate your joints by reviewing your health history, performing a physical exam and getting an X-ray of the involved joints.
Oftentimes, as you age your joint movements become stiffer and the rice crispy treat cracking sounds become more excessive; when this happens, it’s most commonly a symptom of arthritis which can be treated with non-surgical care. At Eagle Rock Medical Center, located in located in Idaho Falls, ID., we have decades of experience in joint preservation and have treatments that will greatly reduce inflammation, pain and the root of all that cracking. Visit us now at eaglerockmedical.com to view all our services and to book your consultation online today.