Is popping of bones a serious condition in children?

Q: My son is 6 years old. He is quite a big boy for his age. Recently his bones have started to pop. Earlier i didn't bother much about it, but lately he has started complaining about them. Could this be due to growing pains?

A:When you state that his bones are beginning to pop, I take it that you are referring to clicking and snapping of joints. I would attribute this to loose joints (joint laxity), which may be very benign and nothing to worry about. You may need to consult a specialist if your son has pain or swelling over any joint.