Important message for anyone with 'clicky' knees and when you need to see doctor

Important message for anyone with 'clicky' knees and when you need to see doctor A health expert explains the reasons some people experience 'clicky' knees, and the signs they should be assessed An expert in joint pain has revealed why some people experience ‘clicky’ knees - and the six signs they should be assessed. Many people experience clicks or pops when they walk or bend, and according to Fatema Contractor, isteopath at The Health Suite, it’s generally harmless. But there are some times when noisy joints should be investigated. Fatema said: "It can sound alarming, but knee clicks don’t always mean there is something wrong. "It is often just as a result of harmless gas bubbles releasing inside the joint. But pay attention if the clicking is accompanied by other symptoms." Fatema says the six signs that there could be something more at play include: - pain or tenderness - swelling - locking or catching of the joint - your knee 'giving way' - reduced movement - change following an injury She said: "If your knee clicks with pain or swelling, it can mean tracking or cartilage issues, and it’s worth having the knee properly assessed. Many people think the sound alone can indicate there is something wrong, especially if it's particularly loud, but symptoms and how your knee functions tell us much more." What exercises could help 'clicky' knees? Fatema recommends step-ups and glute bridges to help stabilise the knee area by improving lower-body strength and mobility. She said: "Strong hips help to protect weak knees. Step-ups are an effective exercise as they target the outer hips, glutes and lower body. "Start by standing close to a step, and step up, making sure your knee is aligned over your foot and your pelvis stays level. Practice with good form before you progress to this exercise by adding weight with dumbbells. "Glute bridges are also effective in strengthening the hip area, targeting your lower body and core. Lie with your back on your mat, your arms outstretched by your side, and your knees bent with your feet rooted to the floor. "Slowly raise your hips, bringing your glutes off the floor. When you reach the top, squeeze for a couple of seconds, then release and lower. Repeat this 10 times." She stressed: "If any pain is severe or prolonged, it's important to see an osteopath or a physiotherapist for a thorough assessment." When should you worry? A meniscus tear, which is a torn piece of shock-absorbing cartilage that gets caught in the joint, could cause clicky knees. The meniscus can be torn by a sudden physical event, such as a forceful twist, pivot, or rapid change of direction, often during sports or an awkward misstep. It can also thin out and tear gradually over time due to age-related wear and tear. Knee osteoarthritis is a very common cause of clicking, cracking, and grinding noises. Osteoarthritis occurs when worn-down cartilage causes bones to rub together directly. According to health experts, patellar misalignment is one of the most frequent causes of clicking knees, especially in younger or highly active people. Doctors often refer to this issue as patellar tracking disorder or patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS). It occurs when the kneecap does not stay centred as it moves, creating friction that leads to distinct clicking sounds.