Joints in the body, such as knuckles, spine, knees, and hips, can make a clicking sound when moved. Some believe it’s caused by a change in joint fluid pressure, while others suggest it’s due to the movement of muscles or tendons. Intentionally cracking joints does not appear to cause long-term joint problems, and there is no evidence that it causes arthritis.
Snapping joints are joints in the body, often in the knuckles, spine, knees, and hips, that make a clicking sound when moved or otherwise manipulated. Some medical researchers believe that joint cracks are caused by a change in joint fluid pressure, while others suggest that the cracking noise may result from the movement of muscles, tendons, or other joint components against each other while a joint is manipulated. Often, people intentionally crack their joints, either as a habit or to seek temporary relief from joint discomfort. Contrary to popular belief, intentionally cracking your joints does not appear to cause long-term joint problems.
Many medical experts believe that the phenomenon of cracked joints is related to the pressure of the fluid that naturally surrounds the joints. When a joint is stretched, the joint fluid is temporarily allowed more space and as a result the pressure exerted on the fluid decreases. This change in pressure can cause bubbles to form and then burst, resulting in an audible crack.
Other medical researchers have suggested that cracked joints occur when two or more components of a joint move against each other. A joint is made up of many parts, including bones, ligaments, tendons, cartilage, and muscles. When two or more of these parts are pushed together, a cracking sound may be produced.
Often, people intentionally cause cracks in the joints. Some break their joints, especially knuckles, simply out of habit. In some cases, however, people intentionally break their joints to temporarily ease the discomfort in the area. This intentional cracking can be performed by the distress sufferer himself. Alternatively, those suffering from discomfort can visit a chiropractor, osteopath or physical therapist to have their joints manipulated and broken professionally.
Many people are familiar with the belief that repeatedly cracking one’s joints, especially the knuckles, can cause those joints to develop arthritis. However, there is no medical evidence to support this claim. In fact, some research shows that breaking joints can temporarily improve mobility by loosening the joints and making them feel more flexible. On the downside, however, some researchers believe that prolonged hand joint disruption can lead to a weakened grip.
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