Ever wonder if the popping and creaking sounds from your knees are cause for concern?

For some people, they may be. 

Dr. Will Whiteside, an orthopedic surgeon with Tidelands Health Orthopedics, says it’s normal for joints to pop or click periodically.

“Inside the joints is the lubricant called synovial fluid,” Dr. Whiteside says. “This fluid helps joints move smoothly. Bubbles can be in the fluid, and when you bend or sit, the bubbles pop, causing the sound.”

People should become concerned when popping sounds are accompanied by pain, swelling or other symptoms, he says.

“If you experience pain, can’t extend your knee or it locks, then you should seek medical attention,” Dr. Whiteside says. “Indeed, noisy knees might eventually become arthritis, but I wouldn’t necessarily see a doctor just because your knee popped.”

Many factors influence the likelihood you will develop arthritis, Dr. Whiteside says. Some of them, such as genetics, are outside of your control.

However, there are ways to lower your risk. For example, Dr. Whiteside says it’s important to maintain a healthy weight, which can reduce the stress placed on joints, and do some form of strength or resistance training. Low-impact exercise can also help by strengthening the muscles around your joint to provide more stability, and stretching can decrease tension. He adds to also maintain a good posture.