Cracking Knuckles Does Not Cause Arthritis: Scientists Debunk the Main Myth.

According to ТСН: Many people have heard that cracking knuckles can lead to arthritis. However, modern medicine and extensive research confirm that this sound has nothing to do with cartilage degradation.

Cracking Knuckles Does Not Cause Arthritis

We often encounter situations where some people are keen to crack their knuckles while others oppose it. The sudden sound interrupts the silence.

"You're harming your joints," one remarks.

"No, I'm not harming them," the cracker retorts.

Research shows that the truth is on the side of the fans of this sound. The words of loved ones about the supposed harm to the joints have no scientific basis. This is confirmed by Dr. John Fernandez, a specialist in treating hands, wrists, and elbows at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago.

Scientific facts explain why cracking knuckles is not dangerous.

Where Did the Myth About Knuckle Cracking Harm Originate?

Fernandez believes that the negative attitude towards cracking is more related to social norms than to medical considerations. He points out that warnings from Aunt Mildred and similar figures are based on behavioral rules rather than on health concerns.

"It's rude to make noise in public places," the doctor notes.

People generally dislike hearing or experiencing the consequences of others' physiological processes. Although the sound of cracking fingers has no smell, it still reminds us of internal processes in the body, specifically the fluids and gases in the joints.

How Does the Characteristic Crack Occur?

Dr. Fernandez explains that the finger joints are made up of two bones covered with cartilage and surrounded by a membrane filled with synovial fluid, which lubricates the joint. This fluid contains gases – oxygen, carbon dioxide, and nitrogen. When a person stretches or bends a finger, the distance between the bones increases, and the pressure in the joint drops sharply, leading to the formation of gas bubbles – this process is called "cavitation."

This phenomenon is explained by Henry's law: the ability of gases to remain dissolved in a liquid depends on the pressure. When the pressure decreases, the gases come out of solution, forming bubbles, much like carbonated water after opening a can.

Cavitation can also occur under other conditions, such as among divers during a rapid ascent to the surface, which can lead to serious problems.

Does Cracking Knuckles Harm the Joints?

Cracking knuckles does not cause either decompression sickness or arthritis. For decades, scientists have studied whether this habit is detrimental to the joints or general health. The conclusion is clear: "There is no scientific evidence that cracking knuckles leads to osteoarthritis or any type of arthritis," says Fernandez.

Initial scientific descriptions of changes in the joints during cracking appeared in 1947. In 1975, a study involving 28 elderly individuals who regularly cracked their knuckles found no link to joint diseases. Similar conclusions were confirmed by the authors of a literature review in 2018.

Dr. Donald L. Unger also decided to conduct an experiment: for over 60 years, he regularly cracked the knuckles of one hand without experiencing any negative consequences.

For his research, published in the journal Arthritis & Rheumatism in 1998, Unger received the Ig Nobel Prize in Medicine in 2009. During the ceremony, he joked: "I want it to be written on my tombstone: 'Here lies Don Unger, who finally stopped cracking his knuckles.'"

Cracking Knuckles is Harmless, but Annoying

Those who often crack their knuckles may notice slight thickening of the tissues around the joint, making it visually larger.

"This may resemble arthritis, but the joint itself is completely healthy," emphasizes Fernandez.

Arthritis is associated with the degradation of cartilage, while cracking joints has no effect on this process.

"Besides annoying your mom, cracking knuckles is not dangerous and does not harm your health," adds the doctor.

It is important to note that the habit of cracking the neck can be dangerous: sudden movements can lead to the rupture of arteries supplying oxygen to the brain or trigger a stroke. Doctors also warn about the risks associated with mechanical manipulations that can cause dizziness and body numbness.

Therefore, despite popular myths, cracking knuckles does not have a negative impact on joint health. Nevertheless, it is important to be cautious with other parts of the body, as some manipulations can lead to serious consequences. Stay attentive to your body and consult a doctor if doubts arise.