From the first time you cracked your knuckles as a kid, someone probably told you to stop. So, does cracking knuckles cause arthritis, and is it really bad for you? Here’s the answer.

Let’s Get Crackin’!

For those looking for the short answer to this question, we’ll cut right to the chase. There is little evidence to support that cracking (or popping) your knuckles can eventually lead specifically to arthritis. However, that doesn’t mean it’s necessarily harmless, or that it can’t have a negative affect on your hands. We’ll explore the ACTUAL causes of arthritis later in this article, but for now, let’s stick with the knuckle crack.

What Causes the Infamous ‘Crack’?

First, we should dispel the myth that you actually pop your bones whenever you crack your knuckles. This is not the case, and should it ever be, you may want to pay a visit to your nearest Next Level Urgent Care to be seen immediately!

The sound you actually hear when you crack your knuckles, or for that matter any part of your body, is nitrogen gas bubbles compressing and bursting. Because joints naturally accrue nitrogen bubbles overtime, the cracking sensation can feel even more relieving (and louder) when you haven’t had a pop in a while, such as when you first wake up.

ACTUAL Negative Effects of Popping Knuckles

While the act of cracking your knuckles isn’t inherently harmful, injury can still be sustained if done so incorrectly, too frequently, or harshly. Here’s some risks that finger pop-enthusiasts need to be aware of:

Dislocation

Some prefer to crack their knuckles by applying pressure to the top of the fingers, while others web their hands like the image shown above. In either case, the risk of dislocation is imminent if done so abruptly or forcefully, which is extremely painful. If your knuckles don’t pop the first time, it’s best not to try again!

Torn Ligament

Your fingers are full of ligaments that are vital for grip, stability and everyday use. These ligaments can be strained or even torn if to much pressure is applied in the act of popping knuckles. If you experience sudden pain or swelling after a knuckle pop, notify your doctor right away. Side note, we can treat that at Next Level Urgent Care!

Cartilage Damage

Even if one cracks their knuckles carefully, this doesn’t mean that the cartilage in the fingers aren’t being worn down more and more each time. The eventually thinned cartilage can lead to a tear, permanent injury, or limited use of a hand in the long run, all of which require medical attention and likely physical therapy.

On the Topic of Arthritis

Arthritis is not just a single disease. In fact, there are over 100 types of arthritis that encompass join pain. Does cracking knuckles cause arthritis? No, not necessarily. However for those wanting more information on what DOES cause this type of joint conditions, here’s some information to be aware of.

• Family History: If your family has a medical history of arthritis, specifically your parents or siblings, there’s a chance you may get it in the future.
• Age: The risk of arthritis of all types, such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and even gout increases with age.
• Previous Injury: A joint that was once injured, such as a past sports injury, is more at risk to develop arthritis.
• Your Sex: Studies show that women are more likely to develop rheumatoid arthritis, while men are more likely to develop gout.
• Your Lifestyle: Obesity is one of the leading lifestyle causes that result in arthritis, as is a prolonged inactivity.