The medical term for popping in a joint is “crepitus.”
In addition to popping, crepitus can cause a cracking sound or a clunking or snapping sensation.
This article discusses possible causes of ankle popping and treatment for conditions when it is problematic.
Dimensions / Getty Images
Dimensions / Getty Images
What Causes Ankle Popping?
Anklepopping can occur for various reasons.
Inside the capsule is a liquid calledsynovial fluid, which helps keep the joints lubricated and moving smoothly.
Joint capsules can become tight, especially if you haven’t moved around in a while.
When you move your ankle, the capsule around the joint stretches.
This can cause gas to release from the joint, making a popping sound.
Peroneal tendonitis is resulting from inflammation and swelling of tendons that run behind your outer ankle bone.
In addition to popping, this condition causes pain, especially when turning your foot inward.
Osteochondral lesions in the ankle can cause clicking or popping and a feeling that the joint is unstable.
Ligament Injury
Anankle sprainis aligamentinjury that can cause ankle popping.
Ligament injuries also cause pain, swelling, and sometimes bruising.
What Can Help Strengthen Your Ankles?
Specific exercises can help strengthen your muscles and increase your range of motion after injuries that causeankle popping.
Ankle Circles
Ankle circles increase the range of motion.
They are performed as follows:
Make this exercise harder by closing your eyes.
Summary
Ankle popping is a common occurrence and usually isn’t cause for concern.
However, you might have an underlying injury if you have pain or swelling along with the popping.
Most often, ankle popping pops up if the space around the ankle joint releases gas during movement.
Popping can also occur with damage to your ankle’s tendons, ligaments, or cartilage.
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American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.Sprained ankle.
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