HERE’S WHAT REALLY HAPPENS WHEN YOU CRACK YOUR KNUCKLES

We all know that sound: the tiny, popping noise made from someone cracking their knuckles, neck, back, wrist, elblow, toes… you name it. And we all know the old wives’ tale that cracking your knuckles is bad for you. But is it true?

Either you pop your knuckles (neck, hips, etc.) religiously or you’re like my aunt who HATES the sound and freaks out every time somebody does it. For years, people have believed that this annoying yet cathartic habit leads to arthritis and lasting pain later in life. Now it’s time to put the rumors to rest, once and for all.

As you may or may not know, the space in between your joints is filled with a lubricating liquid called synovial fluid. Whenever you stretch a joint, small gas bubbles form in the synovial fluid and pop– this is the noise you hear. So is it bad for you?

The most interesting study carried out regarding knuckle cracking was done by Donald L. Unger, who cracked only the knuckles in his left hand for 60 years. At the end of this lengthy trial, the result of pain, swelling, and arthritis in both hands was exactly the same– unaffected.

That being said, no studies have proven any connection between knuckle cracking and chronic pain, although professionals warn not to crack anything repeatedly if it hurts when you do so. One test from 1990 did show that people who cracked their knuckles over a long period time were more prone to swelling and poorer grip strength, but no other research has been carried out on that front.

Are you a knuckle cracker? SHARE with your friends to let them know that you’re A-OK.