Have the habit of cracking your knuckles and wondering if it could damage your joints? Well, you are not alone!
The short answer is: No, cracking your knuckles does not harm your joints, provided you do not use excessive force and are mindful of the angle.
When we talk about knuckle cracking, we may find several people around us who have the habit. And yes, we may also be one of them.
Some people do it for fun, others do it when they are bored, and yet others do it as a way of releasing stress. Not to mention, there may also be people who just hate the sound of cracking knuckles!
What Do People Think About Knuckle Cracking?
A common perception that exists among people is that cracking makes the knuckles bigger and results in arthritis in fingers. So, does the momentary satisfaction of cracking knuckles have long-term implications?
The fact is that if you do it the correct way (do not exert too much force and are careful about direction as well), cracking your knuckles does not damage your joints.
What Happens During Cracking of Knuckles?
Some orthopaedic doctors are of the view that when you crack your knuckles, it releases nitrogen gas as bubbles inside the joint fluid. And why is there that sound? Compressing bubbles give rise to the sound.
However, researchers still have doubts about whether the sound comes from the formation of bubbles or their release. But either way, it is only gas.
| 👉Did you know? You cannot crack the same knuckle twice instantly, as gas bubbles take some time to form again in the joint. |
Does Knuckle Cracking Have Any Long-Term Side Effects?
We have already revealed that correctly cracking your knuckles does not make them larger or lead to arthritis. But it does not mean that the habit is absolutely risk-free.
What makes a difference is the technique. Make sure you do not press or pull your fingers with excessive force. And yes, exercise caution with the direction, too.
| 👉Did you know? A physician in California (Dr. Donald Unger) experimented on himself. He routinely cracked the knuckles of just one hand. After practising the habit for over 50 years, he compared X-rays of both his hands. The result? No difference in arthritis – proving that knuckle cracking is harmless. |
How to know things are fine? If it hurts, something is wrong! It is because cracking knuckles should not be painful.
Additionally, if any swelling occurs, movement reduces, or if your fingers look deformed, it would be advisable to visit a trusted ortho doctor. This is because these signs could indicate a ligament injury, another joint condition, or even a dislocation of the finger(s).
When Does It Become a Cause for Concern?
A study was conducted to analyse “crack years”. The aim was to check the amount and duration of knuckle cracking that may influence a person’s osteoarthritis risk.Â
Habitual knuckle crackers would be delighted to know the results. It was found that knuckle cracking in no way (positively or negatively) affected the risk of osteoarthritis or swelling in joints. However, excessive force or pain during cracking should not be ignored.
| 👉What about other sounds from the joints? The sound is often not a cause for concern if it occurs occasionally, is painless, and does not affect your range of motion. If the popping or clicking sound leads to swelling, pain, or limits flexibility, you must consult a trusted joint specialist. |
Conclusion
Is cracking your knuckles harmful or harmless? Neither. It is just something some individuals do as a habit, for fun, or just as a tool to reduce stiffness. Whatever the reason, rest assured: Knuckle cracking is not going to do any harm to your joints, as long as you do not use too much force!