What does popping sound indicate?

Joint popping refers to the cracking or snapping sound that occurs when joints are moved. It is medically known as crepitus. Joint popping happens when synovial fluid in the joint space gets pushed out, allowing gas bubbles to form pockets which then collapse, creating the popping sound. This article provides an overview of the various causes of joint popping in different areas of the body, when it may indicate an underlying condition that requires medical attention, and some general tips for managing joint popping. The purpose is to help readers understand what joint popping means, what may cause it, and when it warrants a doctor’s appointment.

Causes of Joint Popping

One of the most common causes of joint popping is gases building up in the joint cavity and suddenly being released, creating an audible popping or cracking sound. This gas is produced as part of the synovial fluid that lubricates the joints. When the joint is moved in certain ways, it can create pressure changes that cause the gas bubbles to burst (Source).

Another cause of popping joints is the tendons or ligaments sliding over bony surfaces in the joint. When the tendons or ligaments abruptly move across bones or joint surfaces, it can create a snapping or popping sensation. This tends to happen more with tendons and ligaments that are looser or thicker (Source).

Popping the Knuckles

Knuckle cracking occurs when the joints in the fingers are pulled apart, creating a quick, audible popping or cracking sound. When this happens, it causes the fluid inside the joints to rapidly stretch and form bubbles, which then collapse to create the cracking noise (Harvard Health Publishing, 2022).

Despite myths that cracking knuckles causes arthritis, there is no evidence that habitual knuckle cracking leads to hand impairment or osteoarthritis (Castellanos & Axelrod, 1990). In fact, a study by Castellanos and Axelrod (1990) found no significant differences in hand strength or manual dexterity between people who habitually cracked their knuckles and those who did not.

While habitual knuckle cracking does not appear to increase the risk for arthritis or hand function problems, the stretching can inflame the joint lining which leads to swelling and soreness. For some people knuckle cracking is also bothersome due to the noise. However, knuckle cracking is typically harmless and does not require medical treatment unless there is accompanying joint pain, swelling or inflammation (Harvard Health Publishing, 2022).

Popping the Back

Spinal joints can pop for a variety of reasons. Possible causes of consistent joint cracking and grinding in the back include:

[1] A damaged ligament or cartilage:

The cartilage that connects the vertebrae in your spine can wear down over time from inflammation or strain, causing the bones to rub together and make a cracking or grinding noise. This is known as spinal osteoarthritis. Damaged spinal ligaments from injury or overuse can also lead to popping sounds as the vertebrae move.

[2] Deteriorated synovial capsule:

The synovial fluid-filled sacs between spinal joints act as cushions. As we age, these capsules can weaken and dry out. This reduces their shock absorbing abilities, allowing the spinal bones to rub together and pop.

[3] Bone grinding on bone:

Advanced spinal osteoarthritis can cause sections of cartilage to completely wear away. This results in portions of vertebrae that directly grind on each other with movement, creating loud cracking or popping sounds.

While occasional joint popping is normal, consistent grinding noises from the spine may indicate damage. See a doctor if accompanied by localized pain, inflammation, numbness/tingling, or reduced mobility. Imaging scans can check for osteoarthritis, bone spurs, herniated discs, and other causes.

Popping the Knees

The knee joint contains pockets of synovial fluid that help cushion the joint and reduce friction. When pressure changes rapidly in the knee, it can cause the fluid to bubble, popping sounds (Healthline, 2022).

There are several mechanisms that can lead to knee popping:

Quick motion or shifting of the kneecap can cause it to pop or crack (WebMD, 2022).
Tendons or ligaments moving over bony surfaces as the knee bends can create popping sounds (HSS, 2022).

Arthritis or injury can cause uneven knee joint surfaces that pop when moving (Healthline, 2022).
A tear in the meniscus cartilage can lead to knee popping or catching sensations (HSS, 2022).

For some, especially athletes, knee popping may be associated with overuse injuries like runner’s knee or jumper’s knee (patellar tendinitis). However, if it is not painful, occasional knee popping is usually harmless (WebMD, 2022).

Popping the Hips

A common cause of popping sounds in the hips is a condition called snapping hip syndrome. This occurs when a tendon rubs over the hip bone as the leg moves, causing an audible snapping or popping sound (OrthoInfo). The iliopsoas tendon is most often involved, but the tensor fascia latae or gluteus medius tendons can also cause snapping hip (Nationwide Children’s Hospital).

People who are very active in sports that require extensive hip motion, such as ballet, cheerleading or martial arts, are at highest risk for developing snapping hip syndrome. However, it can occur in anyone and happens more frequently in women. The snapping sensation is usually painless but can cause soreness or limited range of motion over time (OrthoInfo).

Treatments for snapping hip syndrome include rest, ice, anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy to strengthen hip muscles, and steroid injections. Surgery may be required in severe cases if more conservative therapies are unsuccessful (Nationwide Children’s Hospital). It’s important to see an orthopedist if hip popping does not resolve on its own or causes increasing pain.

Popping the Ankles

Ankle popping or cracking is a very common occurrence and is usually harmless. It is often caused by tendons or ligaments sliding over the ankle joint or gas bubbles bursting in the synovial fluid that lubricates the joint

Some common causes of ankle popping include:

Moving the foot up and down or rotating the ankle, which allows tendons to snap over the ankle bone and cause a popping sound.

Stretching the ligaments around the ankle, which can create a cracking noise as the ligaments return to their normal length.
Formation and collapse of gas bubbles in the synovial fluid that lubricates the ankle joint.

While ankle popping is typically not serious, it can sometimes be associated with conditions like ankle arthritis, tendonitis, or ligament injury. See a doctor if the popping is accompanied by pain, swelling, stiffness, or loss of ankle mobility.

Rarely, persistent ankle cracking can damage the articular cartilage over time or cause irritation. However, studies show this is unlikely in healthy individuals who crack their ankles. There is little evidence that cracking leads to ankle arthritis.

To help reduce ankle cracking, rest and ice the ankle, wear supportive footwear, and avoid repetitive ankle and foot motions that trigger the popping. If home remedies don’t help, see a podiatrist or physical therapist.

Popping the Neck

The neck contains the cervical spine, which consists of seven vertebrae. When the joints between these vertebrae are moved in certain ways, it can cause them to “pop.” Neck cracking happens when joint spaces within the neck are suddenly widened, creating a popping or cracking sound.

While neck cracking may provide temporary relief, it can be dangerous if done too forcefully or frequently. As per research from Healthline, cracking your neck gently or only occasionally is unlikely to cause harm. However, doing it aggressively, too often, or having your neck cracked by someone else can lead to issues.

Frequent neck cracking puts excessive pressure on the cervical joints. Over time, this can lead to joint instability and acceleration of osteoarthritis in the neck, according to a study published in Medical News Today (source).

Having your neck cracked by a chiropractor or other practitioner also carries risks. As per Neurosurgery One, neck manipulation has been associated with injuries such as strokes, herniated discs, and more (source).

While occasional gentle neck cracking is likely harmless, it’s best to avoid any forceful neck manipulation. See a doctor if neck cracking causes pain, stiffness, or other concerning symptoms.

When to See a Doctor

While occasional joint popping is normal, certain red flags may indicate a more serious underlying condition that requires medical attention. You should see a doctor if the popping sound is accompanied by:

Swelling in or around the joint

Redness around the joint
Joint pain that is severe or persistent
Stiffness that makes it difficult to move the joint

Weakness or instability in the joint
The joint feeling warm to the touch
Clunking, grinding or crunching sounds

Loss of range of motion in the joint

These symptoms may indicate an injury, arthritis, tendonitis, bursitis or other joint problem that needs medical evaluation. It’s important to consult a doctor promptly if you experience any of these red flags along with joint popping or cracking. Leaving certain conditions untreated can lead to permanent joint damage over time.

Conclusion

In summary, joint popping is generally caused by bubbles bursting in the fluid that surrounds and lubricates joints. While popping sounds can occur in any joint, they most often occur in knuckles, back, knees, ankles and neck. For most people, occasional popping is normal and harmless. However, if popping is accompanied by pain, swelling or loss of function, it’s important to see a doctor. Persistent popping in the same joint may indicate an underlying condition and should be evaluated.

While popping joints may provide temporary relief, it’s best not to overdo it. Aggressive and repeated popping can damage joints over time. As with any body function, moderation is key. If popping becomes a habit or fixation, it may be worth examining any psychological or emotional underpinnings with professional support. Overall, be attentive to joints that pop frequently and monitor for other symptoms. With awareness, joint popping can be managed safely.