Why Do Your Knees Click? What Your Joints Are Trying to Tell You

There are times when a sound is often made when moving the knee. While this is typically harmless, it can sometimes signal joint problems. Therefore, it’s important to understand the various causes of the sound from the knee and take appropriate action if necessary. Let’s explore why the knee makes a sound and how to respond to it.

Reasons for the Sound From Knees

Gas in the Joint
There are gas bubbles in the knee joint, composed of gases such as nitrogen, oxygen, and carbon dioxide dissolved in synovial fluid. When the joint is moved, this gas bubble can burst, making a pop. This gas-release phenomenon often occurs in healthy joints and does not harm the joints or cartilage. It’s a physiological phenomenon that appears generally in most people, and there’s no need to worry if there’s no pain or discomfort.

Worn Cartilage
As you age or due to excessive exercise, the cartilage in the knee can wear or thin due to repetitive use. This worn cartilage disrupts the joint’s smooth movement and can make a sound due to friction or pressure changes. Worn cartilage can be an early sign of arthritis, especially osteoarthritis. This condition can be accompanied by pain, stiffness, and limited joint movement and requires appropriate treatment and management.

Abnormal movement of the tendon
The tendon around the knee can make a sound when it deviates from the groove surrounding the joint or moves abnormally. This can mainly occur when bending or straightening the knee. In most cases, it does not accompany pain, but in some cases, it can cause discomfort or pain. If pain is accompanied, tendinitis or injury may occur, so a medical expert’s diagnosis is required.

Joint injury
If the surface of the knee joint becomes rough due to damage to the knee joint, such as cartilage rupture or bone damage, a sound can be made. This is due to friction or irregular movement within the joint. If the knee makes a sound accompanied by pain, swelling, and limited movement, it could be a sign of a severe joint problem. In this case, appropriate medical evaluation and treatment are required. An accurate diagnosis should be made through MRI scans, X-ray examinations, etc.

Good food for Knee Joints

Blue-backed fish
Fatty fish like salmon, sardines, and mackerel contain omega-3 fatty acids. These fatty acids help reduce inflammation and maintain joint health.

Walnuts and nuts
Walnuts, almonds, and pecans contain omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants. They help reduce inflammation in the joints and improve joint health.

Olive oil
Olive oil contains healthy monounsaturated fatty acids that help reduce the risk of inflammatory diseases like arthritis. Also, olive oil contains a component called oleocanthal, which has anti-inflammatory effects.

Green leafy vegetables
Green leafy vegetables like spinach, kale, and broccoli are rich in vitamin K and vitamin E, which help reduce inflammation in the joints and maintain cartilage health.

Fruits
Fruits like strawberries, blueberries, and oranges contain vitamin C and various antioxidants. These nutrients are essential in reducing joint inflammation and maintaining joint health.

Ginger and turmeric
Ginger and turmeric contain compounds with powerful anti-inflammatory effects. They can help alleviate symptoms of inflammatory diseases such as arthritis.

Dairy products
Dairy products such as milk, yogurt, and cheese are rich in calcium and vitamin D, supporting bone health and positively impacting joint health.

Bone broth
Bone broth is rich in nutrients such as collagen, glucosamine, and chondroitin for joints. This can improve joint flexibility and reduce pain.