For generations, people have been warned that cracking their knuckles causes arthritis. Today, we know that this belief is largely unfounded, but experts explain what's really happening in the body when joints crack, click, or "crack" — and when these noises could be a sign of a problem.
According to experts, joint noises usually come from one of three causes: the bursting of gas bubbles in the synovial fluid (the fluid that lubricates joints), the movement of tendons or ligaments over bones, or the temporary separation of joint surfaces and their return to position. For example, a snapping finger occurs when a rapid change in pressure inside the joint capsule creates a gas bubble that bursts with a loud noise.
Rheumatologist Dr. Rod Hughes explains that these sounds, known as “crepitations,” are very common and in most cases harmless. However, if they are accompanied by pain, swelling, joint stiffness, tingling, or decreased mobility, they may indicate hidden problems.
In some cases, cracking can be an early sign of osteoarthritis, meniscus or ligament damage. People who have had previous injuries, are overweight or play high-impact sports are at higher risk. Women may notice more discomfort during their menstrual cycle or menopause, when joints tend to be more “loose.”
The cause is not always the joint itself. Often, the noises are related to weakness or lack of muscle coordination. For example, a shoulder that frequently clicks may indicate that the shoulder blade (scapula) is not stabilizing properly, forcing the joint to move unnaturally. Even clicking in the hip can come from stabilizing muscles that are not functioning properly, causing the tendons to “skip” over the bones.
Clicking in the hip and groin is common and often harmless, but it can sometimes signal a labrum tear, hip joint lock, or hernia. If pain, catching, or locking occurs during movements such as hip rotation or deep squatting, a medical checkup is advised.
Even your sleeping or sitting position can affect the “creaking” of your joints. Poor posture can cause misalignment and unnecessary stress on your joints, ligaments, and tendons, leading to stiffness and pain, especially in the morning. Cold, damp weather often worsens this sensation, as low atmospheric pressure allows tissues to expand, while cold makes muscles less elastic and thickens synovial fluid.
As for the deliberate cracking of joints, some experts warn that it can create a kind of addiction to the feeling of temporary relief. However, there is no scientific evidence that it causes arthritis or long-term damage. A famous personal study by Dr. Donald Unger, who cracked only the fingers of one hand for more than 50 years, showed that there was no difference or sign of arthritis compared to the other hand.
To reduce stiffness and discomfort, experts recommend gentle stretching, regular physical activity, and strengthening the muscles around the joints with controlled exercises. Mobility, balance, and coordination exercises, as well as low-impact activities like swimming, cycling, or yoga, help keep joints healthier and more flexible. /GazetaExpress/
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