What You're Experiencing

Audible clicking, popping, or cracking sounds from joints during movement, sometimes with pain.

When to seek help: This symptom can usually be managed with self-care initially. If it persists beyond 2 weeks or worsens, consult a physiotherapist.

Likely Causes

This symptom is commonly caused by one or more of the following conditions. A physiotherapist can identify the exact cause through a thorough assessment.

1 Gas bubbles in joint fluid (harmless)
2 Tendon snapping over bone
3 Cartilage wear (osteoarthritis)
4 Meniscus tear

What a Physiotherapist Will Do

1. Assessment

Your physiotherapist will conduct a thorough examination including movement tests, palpation, and posture analysis to identify the root cause of your clicking or popping joints.

2. Diagnosis

Based on the assessment, they'll explain which of the likely causes applies to you and discuss the best treatment approach.

3. Treatment

Treatment typically combines hands-on therapy for immediate relief with targeted exercises to address the underlying cause. Most patients notice improvement within 2-4 sessions.

4. Home Programme

You'll receive specific exercises and advice to continue your recovery at home, helping you get better faster between sessions.

Related Conditions & Treatments

Learn more about the conditions and treatments related to this symptom:

condition Knee Pain → condition Shoulder Pain → condition Osteoarthritis →

Helpful Articles

Best Exercises Osteoarthritis →Best Exercises Knee Pain →When To Use Ice Vs Heat →

Frequently Asked Questions

Is joint clicking harmful?

Painless clicking is usually harmless — it's often just gas bubbles popping in joint fluid. If clicking comes with pain, swelling, or locking, it may indicate cartilage or tendon damage that benefits from physiotherapy assessment.

Can I stop my joints from clicking?

Strengthening the muscles around the joint and improving flexibility can reduce clicking. A physiotherapist can prescribe specific exercises based on which joints are affected and the underlying cause.