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Why Do Shoulders and Knees Pop? Understanding the Causes Behind Joint Noises

knee and shoulder cracking

Understanding why shoulders and knees pop can help you determine whether it’s just a normal part of joint movement or something that requires further investigation.

1. What Causes Joints to Pop?

Before diving into the specific causes of popping in the shoulders and knees, it’s important to understand the general mechanisms behind joint noises. Here are the primary reasons why joints pop:

2. Why Do Shoulders Pop?

The shoulder is one of the most complex and mobile joints in the body, capable of a wide range of motion. This complexity makes the shoulder more prone to popping and clicking sounds. Here are some common reasons why shoulders pop:

3. Why Do Knees Pop?

Knee popping is also common and can occur for various reasons. The knee joint bears a lot of weight and stress, making it susceptible to a range of issues that can lead to popping or cracking sounds. Common causes of knee popping include:

4. When Should You Be Concerned?

While most joint popping is harmless, there are situations where it may indicate a more serious issue that requires medical attention. You should consider seeing a healthcare provider if:

5. What Can You Do About Joint Popping?

If your shoulder or knee popping is not associated with pain or other symptoms, it’s generally not something to worry about. However, if you’re concerned or experiencing discomfort, here are some steps you can take:

Conclusion

Popping sounds in the shoulders and knees are common and can occur for a variety of reasons, from harmless gas bubbles to more serious conditions like ligament tears or cartilage damage. While most instances of joint popping are benign and not associated with pain, it’s important to be aware of any accompanying symptoms that could indicate an underlying issue. By understanding the potential causes and taking steps to maintain joint health, you can reduce the frequency of these noises and keep your joints functioning smoothly.

At Princeton Sports and Family Medicine, P.C., our doctors specialize in sports medicine services, including exercise counseling and physician services to assess your risk for injury and assist in your performance goals.

Call or click to book a session with our professionals at Princeton Sports and Family Medicine, P.C. In addition to problem-focused visits, we offer sports performance evaluations to stop problems before they start. Plan your visit today!

Author
Peter Wenger, MD Peter C. Wenger, MD, is an orthopedic and non-operative sports injury specialist at Princeton Sports and Family Medicine, P.C., in Lawrenceville, New Jersey. He is board certified in both family medicine and sports medicine. Dr. Wenger brings a unique approach to sports medicine care with his comprehensive understanding of family medicine, sports medicine, and surgery. As a multisport athlete himself, he understands a patient’s desire to safely return to their sport.

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