Clicky Joints – Should You Be Worried?

When Joints Click: Myth vs. Reality
Yesterday in the studio, I had a conversation with one of my clients, Emma. She came in a bit anxious after seeing another practitioner who recommended she see a doctor because her hip was clicking during movement. Naturally, Emma was worried that something was seriously wrong.

I could see the concern in her eyes. “Do you think I should get an MRI?” she asked. I could tell she was expecting me to confirm her fears.

But here’s the thing: clicking joints are a bit of a mystery, and they’re often more bark than bite.

The Science Behind the Click

Before I gave Emma my opinion, I took a moment to explain what I knew from the research. A well-known study published in PLOS ONE used real-time MRI to observe joint cavitation—the process that creates that familiar pop or click sound. The study found that this sound often occurs when gas bubbles rapidly form within the synovial fluid that surrounds the joint—a process called tribonucleation.

This research backs up the theory that these clicks and pops are usually harmless, especially when not accompanied by pain, swelling, or loss of mobility. So, why do some joints click more than others? Often it’s about gas bubbles, changes in pressure, or tendons snapping over bony structures, especially around the hip and shoulder.

Should You Be Concerned About Clicky Joints?

I told Emma that while getting an MRI might show some changes—like early arthritis or minor degeneration—it doesn’t necessarily mean that the clicking is problematic. In fact, many people have joint noises without any pain or functional issues. The scan might reveal something, but it’s important to know that something showing up on a scan doesn’t always mean it’s clinically significant.

A systematic review published in The British Journal of Sports Medicine found that imaging findings such as arthritis or degenerative changes are often present even in people without symptoms. So, just because a scan shows something, it doesn’t mean it’s the source of the clicking or even a problem at all.

When to See a Doctor

I reassured Emma that if her hip clicking isn’t associated with pain, swelling, or restricted movement, it’s likely nothing to worry about. However, I did remind her to stay aware of any changes. If the clicking becomes painful, or if she notices weakness or instability, then it’s worth getting a professional assessment.

I also shared that sometimes practitioners may be overly cautious and recommend imaging to rule out anything serious. While I totally understand the intent, it can sometimes create unnecessary worry, especially when we know that clicks can be benign.

Why Do Some Practitioners Sound the Alarm?

Emma asked why her previous practitioner was so worried. I explained that sometimes the way a joint clicks can sound alarming, and practitioners may feel that sending a client for imaging is the safest option. While that approach is valid, it’s important to consider the context. If the joint clicking is new, accompanied by pain, or linked to a traumatic injury, imaging makes sense. But if it’s been there for a while and doesn’t hurt, it’s probably just part of how that joint moves.

The takeaway

Clicky joints can be unsettling, but they’re usually nothing to worry about—especially when they’re pain-free. Movement can actually help keep the joints lubricated and functioning well. I encouraged Emma to keep moving mindfully and to focus on how her body feels rather than just how it sounds.

I could see her shoulders relax as I wrapped up. She smiled and said, “I guess I just needed someone to tell me it’s okay.”

And it is. Sometimes we need reassurance that not every click and pop is a sign of something wrong. As long as it doesn’t hurt, keep moving, stay mindful, and don’t stress about the sounds your body makes.

If you’ve been worried about clicky joints or have been told to get a scan, remember: scans often show things that aren’t necessarily problematic. Always consider how your body feels, not just how it sounds. Got questions? Drop a comment below!