Why Do My Knees Click When I Stand or Sit?
Jun 24, 2024
If you’ve ever noticed a clicking sound in your knees when you stand up or sit down, you’re not alone. Knee clicking is common and can happen for a variety of reasons. While it might be disconcerting, understanding the underlying causes can help alleviate any concerns.
Our experienced team at Repair Recover Restore in White Plains and Port Chester, New York, helps patients get to the bottom of knee clicking and knee pain. Here are several reasons why your knees might click — and what you can do about it.
Understanding why your knees click can help you determine if the issue is minor or requires medical attention. There are several potential causes for this phenomenon, ranging from benign issues to more serious conditions.
One of the most common reasons for clicking knees is the presence of gas bubbles within the synovial fluid that lubricants your knee joint. When you move, these bubbles can burst, creating a clicking or popping sound. This is similar to the sound you hear when you crack your knuckles. Generally, this type of clicking is harmless and doesn’t cause pain.
As you bend and straighten your knee, the supporting ligaments and tendons can sometimes shift positions slightly. When they move over bony structures, they can create a clicking sound.
This type of knee clicking is often more noticeable during sudden movements or changes in direction. Ligament- or tendon-related knee clicking usually isn’t cause for concern, unless it’s accompanied by pain or swelling.
Over time, the cartilage in your knee can wear down due to age, repetitive movements, or damage from a previous injury. This can lead to a condition known as osteoarthritis (OA), where the smooth cartilage that cushions the bones becomes rough and worn.
As the bones move against each other, they can produce a clicking or grinding sound. If you experience pain or stiffness along with the clicking, we recommend calling to schedule an evaluation with our team.
The meniscus is a C-shaped piece of cartilage that provides cushioning between your thigh bone and shin bone. Athletes and individuals who engage in activities that place increased strain on the knee joints are most at risk for tearing their meniscus.
A torn meniscus can cause clicking, popping, or locking of the knee joint. This type of injury is often painful, and typically requires prompt medical attention.
Patellofemoral pain syndrome, also known as “runner’s knee,” is a common sports injury that can cause clicking or grinding sounds when you stand up from a seated position or climb stairs.
Runner's knee occurs when the kneecap gets caught or doesn’t move smoothly across the femur. This syndrome may be caused by overuse, joint misalignment, or muscle imbalances.
There are several proactive measures you can take to eliminate or reduce knee clicking. Implementing these strategies can reduce clicking sounds and sensations, and help prevent potential knee problems.
Strengthening the muscles around your knee can help stabilize the joint and reduce clicking sounds. Focus on exercises that target the quadriceps, hamstrings, and calves. Activities like squats, lunges, and leg presses can be beneficial. Always ensure you’re using proper form to avoid injury.
Regular stretching promotes flexibility and helps reduce the tension in your ligaments and tendons. Incorporate stretches for your quadriceps, hamstrings, and calves into your routine. Yoga can also be an excellent way to improve overall flexibility and joint health.
Wearing shoes that provide adequate support and cushioning can reduce the strain on your knees. If you have flat feet or other foot issues, consider using orthotic inserts to improve your alignment and reduce stress on your knee joints.
Excess weight places additional strain on your knees, leading to increased wear and tear on the cartilage. Maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise can help alleviate this pressure and reduce the likelihood of knee problems.
If your knee clicking is accompanied by pain, swelling, or instability, it’s important to schedule an appointment with our team at Repair Recover Restore. We can assess your condition and recommend appropriate treatment options, which may include physical therapy, medication, or surgery. Give us a call today, or schedule a consultation online at your convenience.