Health expert reveals when ‘clicky’ knees should be checked by a GP (Image: Getty)
Many people notice their knees clicking or popping when they walk, bend or move. Fatema Contractor, an osteopath at The Health Suite, says the sound is usually harmless, but has explained when it may point to a problem requiring medical attention.
Fatema said: “Knee clicks can sound alarming, but they do not always mean something is wrong.”
In many cases, the noise is caused by harmless gas bubbles being released inside the joint, reports the Mirror. However, she advised people to take notice when clicking occurs alongside other symptoms.
She highlighted six indicators that may suggest a more serious issue and should prompt a proper assessment of the knee.
- pain or tenderness
- swelling
- locking or catching of the joint
- your knee ‘giving way’
- reduced movement
- change following an injury
Fatema said: “If your knee clicks and is also painful or swollen, it could indicate a problem with tracking or the cartilage, so it is worth having it assessed. The noise itself, even when it is particularly loud, does not tell us as much as the symptoms and how well the knee functions.”
Which exercises might help ‘clicky’ knees?
To support strength and mobility around the knee, Fatema recommends exercises such as step-ups and glute bridges. “Strong hips can help protect weak knees,” she said. “Step-ups are effective because they work the outer hips, glutes and lower body.
“Stand close to a step and step up, keeping your knee aligned over your foot and your pelvis level. Focus on your form before progressing to added weight, such as dumbbells.”
She also recommends glute bridges, which strengthen the hips, lower body and core. Lie on your back on a mat, place your arms by your sides and bend your knees with your feet firmly on the floor.
Gentle movements may help support the knees (Image: Getty)
“Slowly lift your hips, raising your glutes from the floor. Hold at the top for a couple of seconds while squeezing the muscles, then lower back down. Repeat 10 times.”
Fatema stressed that anyone experiencing severe or persistent pain should see an osteopath or physiotherapist for a thorough assessment.
When should you worry?
A clicking knee can sometimes be linked to a meniscus tear. This occurs when the damaged shock-absorbing cartilage becomes trapped inside the joint. Tears may happen suddenly after a forceful twist, pivot or change of direction, often during sport or an awkward misstep. They can also develop gradually as the meniscus weakens with age.
Osteoarthritis of the knee is another common cause of clicking, cracking and grinding sounds. It occurs when cartilage deteriorates, allowing the bones to rub against one another.
Patellar misalignment is also considered a frequent cause of clicking knees, particularly among younger people and those who are physically active. Medical professionals may refer to it 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.
