#12 The December Edition - Noisy Knees

Hello everyone! 👋

Ever wondered about that crackling or grinding noise in your knees when you bend or move? It’s called knee crepitus, and while it can be alarming, it’s more common than you think! This month, we’re diving into what knee crepitus is, its prevalence, and whether it’s something to worry about. Let’s break it down!

🦵 Understanding Knee Crepitus

Knee crepitus refers to the sounds you might hear during movement, like crackling, popping, or grinding. It can be caused by air bubbles in the joint or changes in joint structure. Here’s the catch—it’s not always a sign of something bad!

🔍 Key Findings from Research

A recent systematic review has revealed some surprising insights about knee crepitus:

1. Prevalence:

• 41% of the general population experience knee crepitus.

• It’s seen in 36% of pain-free individuals and a whopping 81% of those with knee osteoarthritis (OA).

2. Association with Structural Changes:

• Knee crepitus was linked to structural issues like osteophytes, cartilage damage, and bone marrow lesions, especially in people with OA.

⚠️ When to Pay Attention

For most people, knee crepitus is harmless and doesn’t require treatment. However, it could signal a problem if it’s accompanied by:

• Pain 🩹

• Swelling 🚨

• Limited movement or stiffness

If these symptoms sound familiar, it’s a good idea to check in with a healthcare professional.

🎯 How to Take Care of Your Knees

1. Stay Active: Gentle exercises like walking or cycling help maintain joint health. 🚴‍♀️

2. Strength Training: Focus on building the muscles around your knees to support movement. 🏋️

3. Maintain a Healthy Weight: Reducing excess strain on your knees can prevent wear and tear. 🍎

💡 Practical Tips

• Incorporate low-impact activities into your routine.

• Avoid sitting in one position for long periods—get up and stretch!

✨ Takeaway

Knee crepitus might sound worrisome, but in most cases, it’s completely normal. However, if it’s paired with pain or other symptoms, it’s worth investigating. And remember, keeping your knees healthy through exercise and weight management is your best defense.

Until next month—take care of those knees and stay active!

🌟 A friendly reminder to wear good shoes to avoid falls this December!

Warm regards,

Kosta Ikonomou 😊