Joint popping can also cause the sensation of pressure being released within the joint.
These could be signs of joint dislocation, or a ligament or tendon tear.
This popping is called a joint cavitation.
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This is referred to as a refractory period and lasts at least 20 minutes.
How to Treat Joint Popping
Treatment for joint popping will differ depending on the underlying cause.
This can help reduce stiffness and allow your joints to move more smoothly.
Stretching tight muscles around your stiff joints can therefore help decrease your stiffness and likelihood of joint popping.
Stiff joints tend to worsen over time without exercise and regular movement.
Joint popping from joint instability significantly increases the risk of subluxation or dislocation.
Joint dislocation poses several risks and can be dangerous.
This can have a significant impact on your daily activities.
Are There Tests to Diagnose the Cause of Joint Popping?
Joint popping is most often assessed through a physical examination from a healthcare provider.
Your healthcare provider will also test the strength of the surrounding muscles around the joint.
An MRI will be able to assess the structure of your ligaments surrounding your joint to check for damage.
These could be signs of joint dislocation or a ligament or tendon tear.
Summary
Joint popping is an audible sound that results when a joint is moved.
Joint popping typically occurs from a joint that is too stiff or too loose.
Physical therapy and surgery may be needed for severe and ongoing joint popping.
Sometimes surgery is needed to reposition and secure a joint in place to prevent it from popping.
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