The popping or clicking sound you hear when lifting your baby can be alarming, but this phenomenon is very common and rarely a sign of injury or distress. This noise occurs frequently in infants due to their unique physiology and is usually harmless. In the majority of cases, the sound is simply a normal byproduct of movement in a developing body.
Why Baby Joints Make Popping Sounds
The most frequent explanation for joint sounds in babies is the phenomenon known as joint cavitation, similar to the sound produced when an adult cracks their knuckles. This occurs when a joint is stretched or moved, causing a rapid change in pressure within the synovial fluid that lubricates the joint space. The pressure change causes gases dissolved in the fluid to rapidly come out of solution and form a temporary cavity, which creates the popping sound.
Another common reason for the clicking is the movement of soft tissues like tendons and ligaments snapping over a bony prominence during motion. This is often the source of the sound when a baby is picked up, as the sudden movement causes a tendon to quickly move across the joint structure, such as in the shoulder.
Infants have very loose ligaments to allow for their rapid growth and development, which permits their joints to move through a slightly greater range of motion. This increased flexibility means that the joint components can shift slightly and produce a click as they settle into their correct position when the baby is handled. If your baby remains comfortable, moves their limbs normally, and does not seem bothered by the sound, the popping is considered a normal part of their physical development.
When to Consult a Pediatrician
While most joint popping is benign, specific “red flags” should prompt a consultation with a healthcare provider. These include a sound that is consistently accompanied by signs of pain, such as the baby crying, wincing, or showing visible discomfort immediately after the pop. Any visible swelling, redness, or warmth near the joint also requires medical attention.
A more serious indication is a restricted range of motion, where the baby refuses to move a limb or holds a joint stiffly, which might suggest an injury or a structural issue. Popping sounds from the hip joint are particularly important to monitor, as a “clunk” or a feeling of instability can be associated with developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH). Persistent hip clicking warrants a follow-up examination to ensure the thigh bone is properly seated in the hip socket.
Any clicking that feels more like a grinding sensation rather than a clean pop, or a noise that is repetitive and reproducible with every movement, should also be discussed with your pediatrician. A physician will assess the joint’s stability and range of motion, and may order an ultrasound or other imaging if a structural problem like DDH is suspected.
Safe Techniques for Lifting and Holding
Adjusting your lifting technique can minimize the sounds by reducing the speed and angle of joint movement. Support the baby’s head, neck, and torso simultaneously, particularly in newborns and young infants. This prevents sudden, uncontrolled movements that can stretch the joints and cause the soft tissues to snap.
Aim to lift your baby as a single, cohesive unit, using your body mechanics to reduce strain on the baby and yourself. When lifting from a crib or the floor, squat or kneel down to bring the baby close to your body before standing up, which encourages a gentle transition. Using a smooth, slow motion minimizes the rapid joint separation that can lead to joint cavitation.
Always keep your baby close to your chest and centered over your body when carrying them to maintain stability and control. Avoiding quick, jerky movements during diaper changes or when moving them from one surface to another helps reduce the likelihood of a noticeable pop.