The act of "knuckle cracking" is produced when the pressure within the joint capsule is decreased. The stretching, pulling or otherwise "cracking" of a joint increases the space (and negative pressure) between bones, sucking joint (synovial) fluid into the newly formed space and resulting in the oh so gratifying popping noise. So, what's up with the arthritis rumors?
In perhaps the best evidence of this concept, Donald Unger, M.D. used himself as the test subject. Every day for more than sixty years, Dr. Unger cracked the knuckles on his left hand only, using his right hand as the control. The result: No consequences and no formation of arthritis in either hand.
Multiple studies have added insight, looking into the prevalence of knuckle cracking aficionados among large groups of osteoarthritis patients. The finding: no evidence of arthritis in the "crackers" compared to "non-crackers".
The good news: We can all assume selective hearing impairment during a mindless knuckle cracking sesh when others attempt to instill fear with talk of dooming finger-cracking ailments.
The bad news: Popping sounds can also occur in our bodies as a result of tendons catching on bone spurs or joint formations, especially in the neck. Although the degree of harm this may incur depends on the person, it is always a good idea to seek the counsel of a health care practitioner when something just doesn't feel right.
Source: Medical Information Pro
