Are Noisy Joints A Sign Of Arthritis?

When you get up, sit down, or flex your fingers, you might hear sounds that aren’t normal for you. Arthritis, in its many forms, affects 1 in 4 adults in the U.S. alone, so it’s understandable to feel cautious. So, let’s find out when noisy joints should concern you.

Understanding Noisy Joints

Joints that make sounds every time they’re used can be concerning. However, reasons for noisy joints can vary from being completely harmless to worrying. In most cases, you may be relieved that sounds from joints are harmless. They aren’t an indication of any underlying health concerns. However, if they are accompanied by other symptoms such as pain, stiffness, or swelling, you could have arthritis.

Causes of Noisy Joints:

Here are some common reasons why joints make sounds when used:

1. Gas Bubbles:
   There’s synovial fluid that lubricates joints that are made up of nitrogen and carbon dioxide. When joints move, it can cause gasses from these chemicals to burst, and you may hear it as a pop.
2. Tendons Moving:
   Bony prominences covered by tendons can produce the clicking noises that people experience. You can expect it mostly from joints like the knee or shoulder.
3. Injury:
   Injured joints that have gone through some change can sound unusual when moved.
4. Worn Cartilage:
   With aging, the cartilage that protects our joints wears down. This could be an indication of osteoarthritis. Cartilage degeneration can manifest in noisy joints during movement.

Noisy Joints and Arthritis

While noisy joints don’t always mean arthritis, they can be a symptom of some illnesses related to joint sounds.

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder that causes inflammation in joints. This can lead to joint damage and changes in how the joints are structured. This could result in noisy joints. Symptoms associated with Rheumatoid Arthritis are:

• Pain
• Swelling
• Prolonged morning stiffness
• Fatigue and discomfort

Osteoarthritis (OA)

OA is one of the most prevalent forms of arthritis, and its main attribute is cartilage degeneration. Bones rubbing each other because they lack cartilage protection can lead to unusual noises from joints. Symptoms associated with Osteoarthritis include:

• Joint pain during movement
• Stiffness and pain after movement
• Swelling and tenderness in joint areas
• Difficulty moving with ease

When Should You Worry?

While noisy joints are not always concerning, if you feel that it’s accompanied by pain and swelling. Stiffness when you wake up every morning, and you can’t perform daily tasks because of decreased range of motion. It’s essential to get a healthcare provider involved to determine the cause of your issues.

Takeaway

Noisy joints are something everyone faces at some point in their life. You may feel curious as to why joints make any noise, but the main reason why we can hear them is because of the chemicals involved in the process of keeping our joints lubricated.

On the bright side, it’s an indication that your joints are doing what they are supposed to.

However, if noisy joints are accompanied by pain and swelling, it’s not something that should be ignored. This is where the specialists at Rheumatology Care of North Houston can help you.

Our team can evaluate all your joint-related issues and set you on the path to recovery. Schedule your appointment through a call at (832) 532-9779