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consideration by Dr.
Marla.
A few months ago my five-year-old son's knees began to make a noise when he walks. He seems to not notice it, but I hear clicks. What could be wrong? Is he too young to have x-rays?
A. Our
muscles attach to bone by tough cords or bands of fibrous tissue called
tendons. An audible clicking noise is usually a tendon or ligament that
pops over a prominent area of the bone. Usually, it’s not related to
any significant disease or illness. While there are a number of
conditions that can have clicking as a sign, it is reassuring that
there is no pain and you do not describe any change in his gait,
redness or swelling of the knees. Although both x-rays and ultrasounds
are useful diagnostic aids, I would suggest that you first see your
family doctor and have him examine your son’s knee to rule out any
local problems.
Published in Fall 2009
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