Knee Clicking or Popping: When Should You Worry?
Jul 14, 2025
Person holding their knee with a worried expression indicating joint pain

You’re walking up the stairs or stretching after a long day, and suddenly—click! pop!—your knee makes an odd sound. It’s easy to dismiss these noises, especially if there’s no pain. But what if your knee’s trying to tell you something?

Knee clicking or popping can range from completely harmless to a warning sign of something more serious. Knowing the difference can save you from months—or even years—of discomfort or injury.

In this blog, we’ll uncover the causes, signs to watch for, and when to consult a specialist like Dr. Sumit Dubewar, one of the leading orthopaedic experts in the field.


What Causes Knee Clicking or Popping?

Knee sounds are more common than you might think. But they don’t always indicate a problem. Here are some of the most common causes:

1. Normal Joint Movement

The release of gas bubbles in the joint fluid can cause a clicking or cracking noise. This is often painless and nothing to worry about.

2. Ligament or Tendon Movement

Sometimes tendons or ligaments can shift over bones or tissues and then snap back into place, making a popping noise.

3. Cartilage Wear and Tear

Conditions like chondromalacia patellae cause softening of the cartilage behind the kneecap, leading to grinding or clicking when you move.

4. Meniscus Injury

A torn meniscus—commonly caused by twisting injuries—can lead to clicking, locking, or a feeling of the knee catching during movement.

5. Osteoarthritis

With age or overuse, the cartilage cushioning your knee wears down. This can lead to joint stiffness, popping sounds, and chronic discomfort.


When Should You Be Concerned?

Occasional clicking isn’t typically a problem. But you should consult an orthopaedic specialist if:

  • The clicking is accompanied by pain
  • You notice swelling, stiffness, or redness
  • Your knee locks or gets “stuck” during movement
  • You experience instability or your knee gives out
  • You’ve had a recent knee injury or fall
  • The popping sounds are getting more frequent or intense

These symptoms may indicate a more serious condition that needs medical evaluation.


Who Is More Likely to Experience Knee Clicking?

Anyone can experience clicking knees, but certain groups are at higher risk:

  • Athletes and active individuals who put stress on their knees
  • Office workers and students who sit for long hours
  • People with obesity or excess body weight
  • Older adults dealing with age-related joint wear
  • Individuals with a history of knee injuries or surgeries

Even if you're not in pain now, ignoring the signs can lead to complications later.


How Dr. Sumit Dubewar Can Help

Dr. Sumit Dubewar is a trusted name in orthopaedic care, known for his precise diagnoses and personalised treatment plans. If your knees have been making unusual noises or causing discomfort, he’ll get to the root of the problem with a step-by-step approach:

  • Detailed physical examination
  • X-rays or MRI scans to assess bone, cartilage, and ligaments
  • Evaluation of movement and flexibility
  • Discussion about your lifestyle, activity levels, and goals


What You Can Do Now to Protect Your Knees

Taking care of your knees today can prevent long-term issues tomorrow. Here are some expert-recommended tips:

  • Strengthen leg muscles to improve knee support
  • Stretch daily to keep tendons and ligaments flexible
  • Avoid high-impact activities if your knees are already stressed
  • Wear good quality footwear with arch support
  • Maintain a healthy weight to reduce joint pressure
  • Don't delay seeking care if symptoms worsen


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is knee clicking without pain a concern?

Usually not. If there’s no swelling, pain, or instability, it’s likely harmless. Still, monitoring it is important.


Can exercise fix knee clicking?

Yes, in many cases. Strengthening the muscles around the knee—especially the quadriceps and hamstrings—can reduce abnormal movement and sounds.


When should I see a doctor?

If the clicking is new, worsening, or comes with pain, instability, or swelling, it’s best to see an orthopaedic expert.


Will I need surgery for a clicking knee?

Not always. Most patients improve with non-surgical treatments. Surgery is only advised in advanced or unresponsive cases.


Consult Dr. Sumit Dubewar – Your Knee Health Expert

Your knees support your weight, balance your body, and keep you moving. When they start sending signals—like popping or clicking—don’t ignore them.

Dr. Sumit Dubewar offers expert evaluation, clear diagnosis, and effective treatment for all types of knee concerns—from sports injuries to age-related wear and tear.

Get clarity. Get relief. Get back to moving freely.

Book your knee consultation with Dr. Sumit Dubewar today and take the first step toward stronger, healthier knees.

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