Family Practitioner Questions Cracking joints

I can hear a crackling sound in my joints. Does this indicate calcium deficiency?

I can hear a strange crackling sound in my joints, particularly my knees and elbows. What could be the reason for this? Could this be due to calcium deficiency?

6 Answers

No, this is not a sign of calcium deficiency. The medical term for this is “crepitus” and is not necessarily indicative of any disease. If your joints are painful, you should have a medical evaluation.

Oscar F. Lovelace, Jr., MD
This is unlikely to be due to a calcium deficiency. Painless pops and crackles (also known as crepitus) are air pockets in the synovial fluid that surrounds and lubricates our joints. If you are experiencing consistent pain, then it could be due to an internal derangement and should be further investigation. Otherwise, it’s normal movement of the fluid and nothing to be concerned about.
Not likely calcium deficiency. If there is no pain associated with sounds, you are fine.
No, but could be arthritis.
That crackling sound is known as crepitus and is usually a sign of arthritis. Typically, this is associated with the "wear-and-tear" type arthritis known formally as osteoarthritis and occurs as one ages. If it is painless, there is generally nothing to worry about; painful crepitus should be evaluated by a qualified health practitioner.
No