###Human: Can stress and anxiety cause joint problems? ###Assistant: Hello. Random clicking and popping joints is a common occurrence and as long as there is no associated pain or swelling, there is nothing to worry about at a young age such as yours. Excessive stress and anxiety can make your muscles taut. This can happen during periods of depression too. When you move any synovial joint around, the taut muscles around these joints cause the popping and cracking. You can try gentle stretching exercises every morning. This will help relax your muscles and subsequently relax your joints. For more information consult a family physician online -->