Share our 60sec Social Video: https://youtube.com/shorts/t_MjZSskvTA
At RockTape we are often asked: “Can RockTape stop my knees from clicking?”
To answer this question, we first need to understand why knees click and what the science says about knee crepitus
What Is Knee Crepitus?
Knee crepitus is the clicking, popping, or grinding sensation that can be felt or heard around the knee joint, particularly near the kneecap. Crepitus can occur in all joints and is also common in the knuckles.
While it can feel alarming, crepitus is extremely common and is frequently present in completely healthy knees.
Research shows that there is no consistent link between knee crepitus and joint damage or arthritis. Many people experience knee clicking for years without developing any knee conditions.
Why Do Knees Click?
There is still no single explanation for joint noises, but several theories exist.
One widely accepted explanation is the formation and collapse of gas bubbles within synovial fluid, the lubricating fluid found inside joints. This process can create the clicking or popping sound that people notice during movement.
Another factor is tendon or ligament movement across joint structures, which can also produce harmless joint noises.
A well-known example of joint cracking research comes from rheumatologist Donald Unger. He conducted a 50-year experiment in which he cracked the knuckles of his left hand daily while leaving the right hand untouched. After more than 50 years there were no signs of arthritis in either hand, demonstrating that joint noises do not necessarily lead to joint damage.
Even in nature, joint noises occur. The Eland produces audible clicking sounds from its knees while walking, which researchers believe helps herd members keep track of one another.
Is Knee Clicking a Problem?
In most cases, knee clicking is completely harmless, especially when it occurs without pain, swelling, or instability.
However, the sound itself can cause concern. Many people interpret knee clicking as a sign of joint degeneration, which may lead to fear-avoidance behaviours where individuals limit exercise or movement.
Reduced activity can then lead to:
- Decreased muscle strength
- Reduced joint confidence
- Lower overall knee function
For this reason, it is important that professionals take patient concerns about knee clicking seriously, even when the symptom itself is benign.
Can RockTape Help Knee Clicking?
In most situations, knee clicking does not need to be eliminated. However taping may still be helpful for some individuals.
Applying kinesiology tape such as RockTape may help by:
- Improving proprioception (body awareness)
- Supporting more confident movement
- Encouraging normal movement patterns
- Reducing anxiety about joint sensations
For people who feel uneasy about knee noises, taping can provide reassurance and allow them to stay active.
Note: Some customers have reported reduced knee clicking, this is purely anecdotal and there is no research looking at the effect of knee taping on knee crepitus. At least not yet!
When Should You Seek Advice?
Although knee clicking is usually harmless, it may be worth seeking professional advice if it occurs alongside:
- Persistent knee pain
- Swelling around the joint
- Locking or catching sensations
- Knee instability or giving way
A healthcare professional can assess the knee and determine whether further treatment is needed.
What You ‘Kneed’ To Know
Knee clicking or popping is extremely common and rarely a sign of damage.
Instead of focusing on eliminating the sound, the priority should be:
- Maintaining strong, healthy muscles around the knee
- Keeping the joint mobile and active
- Building confidence in movement
Supportive tools such as education, exercise, and kinesiology taping with RockTape may help individuals stay active and move with confidence.How to RockTape your knee video:
Tape Your Own Knee Video: https://youtu.be/oAF10VsB6n4
Buy Some RockTape: https://rocktape.co.uk/collections/kinesiology-tape