What is crepitus?

Crepitus refers to the crackling or popping sound that can be heard when the ends of bones or joints rub against each other. This phenomenon is commonly associated with various conditions, including arthritis or other joint dysfunctions, where there is a breakdown of cartilage or changes in the bone structure.

Understanding the nature of crepitus is essential in the medical field as it can indicate underlying issues within the joint or surrounding tissues. In contrast, a type of fracture describes a specific injury to the bone, a symptom of infection pertains to signs indicating the presence of an infection (such as fever or swelling), and a measurement of joint movement refers to assessing the range of motion, which is distinct from the sounds or sensations associated with crepitus.