An evaluation of temporomandibular joint sounds.

The purpose of this study was to obtain authoritative opinion on the importance of joint noises. Experts in the areas of orthopedics, rheumatology, and arthritis were asked four questions to evaluate the importance of clicking and crepitus in joints other than the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). The general response of these experts indicated that clicking in the absence of other symptoms is not important, clicking in the presence of other symptoms may be important, crepitus in the absence of other symptoms may be important, and crepitus in the presence of other symptoms is important. Caution is advised in treating clicking when it is the only sign.