What Causes Joint Crepitus?

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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