Chiropractic

Why Do Your Joints Click?

Most of us experience the occasional sound of clicking, popping, or cracking joints at some point. While these noises are usually harmless, they often raise questions about joint health and whether they cause concern. At Vale Health Clinic, we understand the importance of addressing and helping you maintain confidence in your joint health.

Joint Clicking and Cracking

The phenomenon of joints clicking or cracking is often due to a process known as cavitation. Inside your joints is a slippery substance called synovial fluid, which acts as a lubricant, reducing friction between bones during movement. A joint can create a vacuum within the fluid when it is stretched or moved. This sudden pressure change allows gases like oxygen, nitrogen, and carbon dioxide to form a bubble. The familiar “pop” occurs when this bubble collapses.

This mechanism is for those who can intentionally crack their knuckles or other joints. After a joint pops, it usually won’t crack again until the gases are reabsorbed into the synovial fluid, which can take several minutes.

When Should You Be Concerned About Joint Noises?

While most joint sounds are harmless, some cases warrant attention. Clicking, cracking, or snapping accompanied by pain, swelling, or stiffness could indicate an underlying issue. Here are a few potential causes:

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is a common condition associated with ageing. It occurs when the protective cartilage in a joint breaks down. As this cushioning diminishes, bones may rub against each other, leading to grinding or crunching sounds (crepitus) and often discomfort or reduced mobility.

Tendons and Ligaments

Tendons and ligaments can sometimes make snapping or popping noises as they move over bony structures. This is particularly common in the hip, knee, ankle, shoulder, and wrist. In some cases, this might result from a slightly loose tendon and, if left unaddressed, could lead to inflammation of the surrounding tissue, such as bursitis.

Joint Instability or Misalignment

Joints that are misaligned or unstable due to injury or strain can produce abnormal clicking sounds. This instability might be associated with muscle imbalances, ligament sprains, or previous trauma that hasn’t healed properly.

Injury or Trauma

A history of trauma to a joint can result in scar tissue or other structural changes, causing noise during movement. These cases often require a professional assessment to prevent further complications.

Can Cracking Your Joints Cause Damage?

There is little evidence to suggest that deliberately cracking your joints leads to long-term harm. Studies have not found a significant link between habitual knuckle cracking and conditions like arthritis. However, if the action causes discomfort or swelling, it’s wise to consult a healthcare professional.

Chiropractic Care in Joint Health

At Vale Health Clinic, chiropractic care can help address joint stiffness, discomfort, and misalignment. Chiropractors often use adjustments that may cause a popping sound in their treatment. This sound is a natural consequence of cavitation, where gases in the synovial fluid are released. Chiropractic adjustments aim to:

Relieve stiffness and discomfort.
Improve joint mobility.
Correct misalignments to support better overall stability.

These adjustments are performed precisely, ensuring the process is safe and beneficial for your joints.

Treatment Options for Joint Pain and Dysfunction

For those experiencing persistent joint pain or conditions like osteoarthritis, advanced treatments such as hyaluronic acid injections can offer relief. These treatments help restore joint function and reduce discomfort:

Hyaluronic Acid Injections

Hyaluronic acid, a natural component of synovial fluid, can be administered directly into the joint to improve lubrication and cushioning. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with osteoarthritis or reduced joint mobility.

Durolane and Cingal Injections

These specialised injections contain advanced formulations of hyaluronic acid, designed for longer-lasting relief and anti-inflammatory effects. Cingal combines hyaluronic acid with a corticosteroid, providing immediate and sustained relief from joint inflammation and pain.

These treatments are safe, effective, and minimally invasive, offering patients a non-surgical solution to regain mobility and comfort.

How to Keep Your Joints Healthy

Maintaining healthy joints is essential for overall mobility and quality of life. Here are a few tips:

Stay Active: Regular low-impact exercises like swimming, yoga, or walking help keep joints flexible and strengthen the muscles that support them.

Maintain a Healthy Weight: Reducing excess weight minimises stress on weight-bearing joints like the knees and hips.

Use Proper Techniques: Avoid repetitive strain or improper posture, leading to joint wear and tear.

Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water supports the production of synovial fluid, keeping your joints lubricated.

Professional Help: If you experience persistent pain, swelling, or changes in joint function, consult a healthcare provider to identify the cause and explore treatment options.

Maintaining Healthy Joints

Joint clicking and cracking are common and often harmless, but persistent discomfort or additional symptoms shouldn’t be ignored. At Vale Health Clinic, we help you maintain healthy, functional joints through personalised care and innovative treatments like hyaluronic acid, Durolane, and Cingal injections.

If you’re concerned about your joint health or have questions about treatment options, contact us today to schedule a consultation. Together, we can help you move freely and live without pain.