What Causes Clicking Of Joints Upon Stretching?

Posted on Sat, 7 May 2016

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sat, 7 May 2016 Answered on

Mon, 20 Jun 2016 Last reviewed on

Question : I feel a clicking sound while moving my left arm. No such sound is audible for right arm. Some time I feel similar sounds from my legs. These clicks seem to orginate from the joint where limbs attach with the body.
Can you let me know what is it and what do I do to get rid of it. Thanks.

Answered by Dr. Sonia Raina (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Normal, practice stretching exercises

Detailed Answer:
Hello, greetings!
Thanks for posting your query on hcm.
Clicking of joints on stretching/ changing position is normal. This is due to vacuum created in the joint space which causes this sound.
If you have any accompanied pain or you are not able to move the joints, then you may need to get an X ray done.
You can do a couple of stretching exercises everyday in the morning so that the joints remain XXXXXXX You can try practising yoga as well.
If you have any further doubts/ clarifications, please get back to me.
Regards,
Dr. Sonia

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Sonia Raina

Follow up: Dr. Sonia Raina (17 minutes later)

Thanks for the quick response. I have a follow up question.

This sound was not present earlier. What changed which caused this ? Does it appear with age ?

Answered by Dr. Sonia Raina (15 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Flexibility diminishes with age

Detailed Answer:
Hello, greetings!
As we grow older, the flexibility of joints takes a toll. The flexibility and mobility present in teens may not be possible now. Thus, as I mentioned earlier, continue with stretching exercises and you may also go for swimming as well.
In case of any difficulties caused, investigations in the form of a physical examination and X ray maybe required.
Regards,
Dr. Sonia

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Sonia Raina