An ITV doctor has shared vital guidance for the millions of people who hear a concerning clicking or popping sound from their knees. Dr Amir Khan, a practising GP familiar to viewers of Good Morning Britain and Lorraine, addressed the common issue on his podcast, offering reassurance and a straightforward management plan.
When Knee Clicking Is (And Isn't) a Concern
During an episode of his No Appointments Necessary podcast, Dr Khan responded to a listener's query about whether specific foods or exercises could help with 'clicking knees'. His initial advice was reassuring for most. "If it's not painful or sore, chances are it's just fluid moving around your knee as you bend down or move," he explained.
He described a simple at-home test to understand the sensation: place a hand over your kneecap while slowly extending your leg. The noise or feeling you detect is often benign. However, he also highlighted a condition known as crepitus, which can cause grating or cracking sounds.
The 'Keep Moving' Mantra for Joint Health
The conversation turned to a more serious potential cause: osteoarthritis. The NHS defines this as a condition that causes joints to become painful and stiff, and it is among the most common forms of arthritis in the UK. Dr Khan attributed it to the natural "wear and tear of the joint," noting that "it happens to all of us."
For those whose clicking is linked to early osteoarthritis, Dr Khan had a succinct, two-word cornerstone of management: "keep moving." He elaborated that movement is therapeutic. "Movement stimulates fluid and cushioning into that joint," he said. His advice is to continue with regular activities like walking or running, provided they are not acutely painful, and to maintain a healthy weight to reduce pressure on the knees.
Understanding Osteoarthritis Risks and Symptoms
Osteoarthritis prevalence is significant. According to Arthritis Research UK, roughly one in five adults over 45 in England has osteoarthritis of the knee. The condition also frequently affects the hips.
Key risk factors for developing osteoarthritis include:
- Increasing age
- Obesity
- Previous joint injury
- Family history of the condition
The NHS states that women are at a higher risk than men. While there is no cure, the condition does not always progressively worsen. Symptoms vary widely between individuals and joints.
Dr Khan's final recommendation is to consult a GP if you are worried. A doctor can assess your symptoms, examine the joint, and rule out other conditions. The key takeaway is that while clicking knees are often harmless, proactive management through movement and weight control is a powerful tool for long-term joint health.
