<p>Crepitus is defined as the crackling sound or sensation during joint motion. Crepitus should be assessed auditorily and by palpation. Hands should be placed comfortably on the joint while encouraging the patient to move actively through all available ranges of motion. Joint findings such as grinding, crackling/crunching will be recorded as crepitus only if consistently present at least 3 or 4 times after 5-10 repetitions. If a single finding (i.e. one pop) is heard do not record it.</p>