Cracking fingers is a common habit which many people often adopt unknowingly. Whether it’s the satisfying popping sound or the feeling of relief, this habitual action has long been surrounded by myths, the most prevalent being that it causes arthritis. But is there any truth in this claim? We contacted two leading orthopedists, Dr Ashish Phadnis, director of orthopedics and joint replacement at Jupiter Hospital, Thane, and Dr Akhilesh Yadav, associate director of orthopedics and joint replacement at Max Hospital, who refuted the notion. So what exactly happens when you crack your knuckles? check for!

Cracking knuckles causes changes in pressure within the joints. According to Dr. Phadnis, joints are surrounded by a fluid known as synovial fluid, which acts as a lubricant and facilitates smooth movement. When you bend or extend your fingers, the pressure within the joint changes, causing gas bubbles, primarily nitrogen, in the synovial fluid to collapse. This release of gas produces the familiar popping sound.

“This is a harmless physical process,” explains Dr. Yadav. The popping sound is not caused by the grinding of bones or cartilage, but by the bursting of gas bubbles. This means that the act itself does not damage the joint.

Knuckle Cracking and Arthritis: Is There a Connection? Despite its reputation, knuckle cracking does not cause arthritis. Dr. Phadnis says that extensive research, including long-term studies, has shown that there is no link between knuckle cracking and the development of arthritis.

Dr. Yadav further explains that arthritis is mainly caused by the following factors:

– Age: Wear and tear on joints over time.

– Genetic predisposition: family history of arthritis.

– Joint injury: Joint injury can increase the risk of osteoarthritis.

Obesity: Being overweight puts extra pressure on weight-bearing joints like knees and hips.

“Knuckle cracking doesn’t cause the same kind of joint damage or wear and tear associated with arthritis,” says Dr. Yadav.

Possible side effects of finger cracking

While knuckle cracking is not harmful in the case of arthritis, frequent or aggressive cracking can have minor side effects:

– Joint instability: Habitual cracking can stretch the ligaments around the joints, potentially causing a slight loss of joint stability.

– Soft tissue irritation: A sudden or forceful crack can cause soft tissue irritation, causing short-term swelling or discomfort.

These effects are usually temporary and do not cause long-term joint damage.

How to maintain healthy joints?

Even though knuckle cracking is harmless, overall joint health is important to prevent problems like arthritis. Experts suggest the following tips:

remain active

Regular physical activity keeps joints flexible and muscles strong. Low-impact exercises like swimming, yoga, and walking are especially beneficial for joint health.

maintain a healthy weight

Excess weight puts unnecessary pressure on the joints, especially the knees and hips. Maintaining a healthy weight reduces the risk of developing joint problems.

adopt nutritious diet

A diet rich in nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants and vitamins helps support joint health. Include foods like fish, nuts, leafy vegetables and fruits in your diet.

Managing stress on joints

Dr. Yadav explains that sitting for long periods of time or repeated stress from office jobs can have a negative impact on joint health. It’s important to take breaks, stretch regularly, and maintain good posture to prevent joint stiffness and discomfort.

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