What are the clicking and popping sounds from my new joint and are they normal?

Many people who have joints replaced ask about noises that come from their new joint. They describe a clicking or popping sound or they may have a definite clunk in a knee or hip when walking. While these unexpected noises are irritating, they are usually not a problem. The soft tissues around your new implant must settle in with each other and adjust themselves to work smoothly together with the hard metal, ceramic, or plastic parts of your prosthesis. If the noises or sensations are accompanied by pain or swelling, or if a new noise develops all of a sudden, let your surgeon know. Over time the clicking and clunking should subside.