Ever heard a kat-kat like sound while walking or doing a particular movement? Then, you aren't alone. Our knees, knuckles, and ankles make this cracking, and popping sound as we do some or the other movement, day in and day out. Reason ?Nitrogen bubbles get trapped in the synovial fluid, and on release lead to cracking sound which is considered to be normal if not accompanied by any pain. Cracking sound usually increases with age, and is harmless. It's also known as "CREPITUS". However, if it is accompanied with pain, or a dull ache , then there could be a reason behind it. Let's look at the conditions that can lead to pain, cracking, and popping of joints. ✅Arthritis- This could be a normal part of ageing, and the most common one happens to be osteoarthritis.There can be breakdown cartilage, leading to swelling and pain. This can be accompanied with a painful grinding sound. ✅Meniscus Tear-Meniscus is a cartilage that sits between weight bearing joints like tibia, and femur. In case, it is damaged, the edges can get stuck during a movement. This can become a reason for painful crepitus, and swelling. ✅Patellofemoral pain syndrome - A dull ache behind the patella (kneecap) can indicate an injury or overuse. During a movement, there can be a grating, crunching sound followed by pain. How to tackle the situation with nutrition if cracking is accompanied by pain? ✨Keep yourself hydrated ✨ Maintain a healthy weight as your body weight lies on your joints. ✨Get your Vitamin D and calcium tests done. ✨ Consume an anti-inflammatory diet. Add fresh fruits, vegetables, leafy greens, nuts, seeds, yogurt, buttermilk, fatty fish, pulses, beans, to your diet. ✨Avoid consumption of processed, refined, and processed foods. ✨Keep the consumption of salt, sugar, to a minimum. ✨Keep yourself active, and opt for low-impact exercises.