Facts vs Fiction: Does Joint/Knuckle Cracking Cause Arthritis?
Joint cracking can definitely be weird, annoying and even scary to listen to; but is it dangerous?
There has previously been this belief that joint cracking can cause arthritis or some other sort of damage. After all these years, there were finally studies done to debunk or validate that claim. Many sources show support that it does NOT cause damage. However, there is still some uncertainty to what it actually does.
In the article, Does knuckle popping lead to arthritis, it is supported that joint popping causes no arthritic disease (2017). According to Powers et al. frequent knuckle cracking will not greater increase the risk of osteoarthritis. However, what can happen?
- Acute soft tissue injuries can occur if joints and ligaments are hyperextended.
- Pain can arise if there is already a level of arthritis present.
- Damage can be caused to the joint if done after a recent drama.
So what is actually happening to create this sound?
According to Lavender (2009), when a joint moves through its range of motion, the ligaments and tendons move as well. If it moves through a particular plane, the ligament or tendon will stretch and then snap back into place. This will create the popping sound that we all hear when we crack our joints or even move in a normal fashion.
…….Furthermore…….
Synovial fluid is another anatomical cause for the sound. Synovial fluid is the body’s own lubricant for the joints. It is a fluid that fills in between to reduce friction. Research shows the pressure is greatly reduced within the joint when extended. Gases dissolve in the synovial fluid causing microscopic bubbles. Then more synovial fluid will rush inside the area of low pressure causing the larger bubbles to collapse and create a popping sound.
Cracking Down on the Final Truth!!
A Physician named Dr. Donald Unger personally proved that there are no greater risks of arthritis or damage caused by regular knuckle cracking. However, there are some adverse effects. At least one study showed the chronic popping of the joints resulted in weaker grip in the hand. This study showed all knuckle-popping participants to have a weaker grip and inflamed knuckles(Nichols 2017). Therefore, displaying poor overall health in hands and possible soft tissue damage. Therefore, crack away, just be careful!
References
Knuckles and joints: Does cracking knuckles cause arthritis? Hannah Nichols – https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/259603.php
Lavender, A. (2016, October 11). Is cracking your joints bad for you?. Nelson Mail, The. p. 9.
Powers, T., Kelsberg, G., & Safranek, S. (2016). Q/Does knuckle popping lead to arthritis?. Journal Of Family Practice, 65(10), 725-728.
Will Joint Cracking Cause Osteoarthritis? (n.d.). Retrieved November 15, 2017, from https://www.webmd.com/osteoarthritis/joint-cracking-osteoarthritis.