Does Knuckle Cracking Cause Arthritis? Myths, Facts & Health Effects
🖐️ Knuckle Cracking: Is It Harmful or Just a Habit? For many people, cracking knuckles is a satisfying habit — a small “pop” sound that brings instant relief. But is it safe? Does it cause arthritis? Or is it just a harmless habit that annoys everyone around you? Let’s find out what science really says. 🔍 Why Do Knuckles Crack? The popping sound comes from gas bubbles (mostly nitrogen) present in the fluid inside your joints. When you pull, bend, or press your fingers, the joint space expands, causing the gas bubble to burst — this creates the cracking sound. So, it’s not bones rubbing against each other — it’s just a pressure release inside your joints. ✅ Is Cracking Knuckles Harmful? Good news — scientific studies show that cracking knuckles does NOT cause arthritis . The cracking sound may annoy people, but there is no direct link between knuckle cracking and joint damage. However, cracking knuckles too frequently or forcefully may: Cause mild hand swelling...