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Crepitus is the medical term for a clicking or grating sound or feeling in a joint. Crepitus can happen when the surfaces of a joint are worn down and rub against each other, or when tendons or ligaments move over other parts of the joint. Crepitus may or may not be painful.

Use cold packs to ease swelling or pain. Try pain relievers such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others) and naproxen sodium (Aleve). Do any exercises a healthcare team recommends.

See a healthcare professional if crepitus happens with:

• Pain.
• Swelling.
• Trouble moving the affected joint.