Knuckle Cracking

Before knowing what happens when we do knuckle cracking, let's see why people do this?

Most of the people usually crack their knuckles to get relief from stress or nervousness. Some think that it's cool while others just do it for fun.

 

But do you know what actually happens when you do this?

There can be different reasons for the cracking sound produced. They are:

1. Escaping Gases: 

The synovial fluid present in our joints acts as lubricants. This fluids contains many gases such as oxygen, nitrogen and carbon dioxide.

When we crack or pop a joint, we stretch the joint capsule. This stretching causes the gas to release rapidly. During this, it releases carbon dioxide bubbles. The cracking sound may be produced due to the movement of synovial fluid back into the gas cavity.

It is due to the movement of gases (from synovial fluids) that we have to wait for around 15 mins to crack the same knuckle again.

2. Movement of joints, tendons and ligaments: 

When we crack our knuckles, the joint is pushed out of its normal position. It is possible that the snapping sound produced is due to the movement of tendon back to its original position.

(In addition to that, your ligaments may tighten as you move your joints. This commonly happens in ankles and knees and can cause a cracking sound.)

3. Rough surfaces: 

Sometimes Arthritic joints make sounds due to the loss of smooth cartilage and the roughness of the joint surface.

But is it harmful?

Knuckle Cracking is neither harmful nor beneficial. Some believed that it can cause arthritis. But it's not true. It does not cause arthritis. Some studies show that repetitive knuckle cracking can do some damage to the soft tissue of the joint. It can also lead to weak grip and swollen hands.

So, it is preferred not to crack your knuckles to be on a safer side.