What Causes Joint Crepitus?

Crepitus is the word used to describe the popping, crunching, and cracking sounds that emanate from joints during movement. These sounds generally do not indicate a dysfunction in the joint. In fact, these sounds often occur from normal body processes during motion. However, in some cases, joint crepitus can be a sign of problems developing in the joints from certain disorders. A closer look at the causes of joint crepitus can help patients determine if they should be concerned about these strange sounds coming from their body as they move.

Air Bubbles In The Joint

The joints of the human body are protected by a substance called synovial fluid, which acts as a lubricant for all joint structures during movement. This fluid contains a number of gases, such as nitrogen, oxygen, and carbon dioxide, which can make a cracking sound when the gas bubbles are released. When individuals crack their knuckles, they cannot produce the sound continuously. Air bubbles in the joint must build up before an individual can release it again with the same movement. Stretching the joint capsule is the mechanism that causes the release of the gas bubbles.

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Snapping Tendons Or Ligaments

Another cause of joint crepitus is the mechanical effect of tendons and ligaments as they are moved from one position to another. These structures that function to move the bones of the joints will shift out of their normal position when movement occurs. The tendons and ligaments stretch during the movement, and during the process, may slide over bone ends. Then, they will 'snap' back to their normal position, creating the cracking sound. This movement and noise may sound troubling, but tendons or ligaments snapping is perfectly natural and does not necessarily mean there is a problem with the structures. However, if pain or swelling occurs during movement, patients should consult a doctor to investigate the problem.

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Osteoarthritis

Joint sounds tend to increase as individuals get older. This effect occurs when aging causes the cartilage to wear away in joints, leaving bone edges more exposed, which may catch on tendons or ligaments. Osteoarthritis, the bone degeneration that occurs from normal wear and tear on joints over time, can also lead to louder or more frequent joint noise. Joints may also develop small, bony overgrowths called spurs that make smooth movement of the joint more difficult. Because of their constant weight-bearing function, knees often develop osteoarthritis problems, with more frequent crunching sounds. Shoulders often make the most noise during movement, because the joint contains many bones that are involved in the rotation of the arm.

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Rheumatoid Arthritis

A different type of arthritis, called rheumatoid arthritis, can also cause joint damage and crepitus. However, this type of arthritis is caused by immune system dysfunction, in which the body mistakenly begins to attack itself. The causes of the condition are not well understood by the scientific community, but bacteria or viruses, family history, and age appear to play a part. Common symptoms of the disease include joint inflammation, pain, and deterioration. Joints throughout the body can be affected by rheumatoid arthritis. The inflammation often causes an increase in joint sounds and dysfunction. Problems from this condition require intensive treatment from a health professional who specializes in rheumatoid arthritis to prevent severe deterioration of the joints.

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Knee Injuries

Sometimes, common knee injuries will cause an increase in the sounds of popping and cracking that occurs when individuals crouch or sit. Tears in the meniscus, scar tissue, or tendons passing over a bone fragment left after an injury can cause an increase in crunching or cracking sounds. After surgery for knee injuries, individuals often experience an increase in sounds, but these generally resolve after a short time. Patients who experience pain or swelling in the knee, along with joint crepitus, should make an appointment with an orthopedic specialist as soon as possible for diagnosis and treatment.