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knuckle cracking - good or bad?
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I've got a running argument with a friend of mine. He says it's a myth that cracking knuckles causes arthritis or damage to hand joints. I argue that if the fluid in your knuckles is meant to be there, then leave it there and don't crack them to release it because obviously it's meant to be there! Anyone any the wiser please? Kat
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I have always thought it was an old wives tale. I have just read this:
''If you can crack your knuckles and your mum tells you you're going to get arthritis, she's just yanking your chain. There is no scientific evidence that cracking your knuckles leads to arthritis. However, it can't be good to repeatedly push a joint beyond its normal physical range. Besides that, it's annoying. Cracking your knuckles can cause a decrease in your grip but unless you're signing any multi-million dollar contracts as a pitcher, it's not worth giving up. But it's still annoying. ''
''If you can crack your knuckles and your mum tells you you're going to get arthritis, she's just yanking your chain. There is no scientific evidence that cracking your knuckles leads to arthritis. However, it can't be good to repeatedly push a joint beyond its normal physical range. Besides that, it's annoying. Cracking your knuckles can cause a decrease in your grip but unless you're signing any multi-million dollar contracts as a pitcher, it's not worth giving up. But it's still annoying. ''
The cracking can be caused by the snapping of tendons over a prominence, but also cavity bubbles collapsing (and hence popping) within the synovial fluid. More often when someone is bending or their fingers, it is the popping in the synovial fluid.
Although there is no evidence that it causes 'arthritis', long term and regular cracking can lead to other joint problems as noted above (swelling and loss of grip strength).
Anoter cracking sound which I often get (unintentionally) is crepitus due to a broken elbow some years back. This often means my arm locks straight and needs to be manipulated (clicked) so that I can bend it again. I have the same thing with my right knee.
Although there is no evidence that it causes 'arthritis', long term and regular cracking can lead to other joint problems as noted above (swelling and loss of grip strength).
Anoter cracking sound which I often get (unintentionally) is crepitus due to a broken elbow some years back. This often means my arm locks straight and needs to be manipulated (clicked) so that I can bend it again. I have the same thing with my right knee.
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