Does Cracking Your Knuckles Cause Arthritis?

Why Do Knuckles Crack?

The cracking sound is caused by the snapping of tendons, ligaments, and joint capsules as they move across a bony prominence. 

Does Cracking Your Knuckles Increase Arthritis Risk? 

The short answer is no. “There are no data to support the idea that cracking knuckles causes or increases the risk of arthritis,” says Dr. Christopher James, one of our Palm Harbor orthopedic specialists. Many studies back this up. A recent Journal of Clinical Anatomy article says, “The evidence for the association of knuckle cracking and osteoarthritis comes mainly from observational studies that have failed to show an association.”

Is Cracking Knuckles Bad? 

There are reported cases of tendon injuries and finger dislocations from forceful cracking, but it's rare. A small 1990 study suggested that knuckle-cracking might have some adverse effects on the hands: the average grip strength of study participants who cracked knuckles regularly appeared to be weaker than those who did not crack their knuckles, but the study failed to find a connection to osteoarthritis.

In one famous case, a curious California doctor experimented on himself by cracking the knuckles on only one hand for decades. X-rays in his later years revealed no difference in arthritis between his hands. 

What Causes Arthritis?

If knuckle-popping doesn’t cause arthritis, then what does? Arthritis is characterized by pain and swelling of one or more joints due to inflammation. There are four main kinds:

• Osteoarthritis is caused by general wear and tear and is the most common type
• Post-traumatic arthritis results from an injury, such as a violent twisting injury or fracture. Over time, this can develop into arthritis 
• Infectious arthritis is caused by an infection in the joints that degrades the cartilage over time 
• Immunologic arthritis, such as rheumatoid and psoriatic, is an auto-immune condition 

How to Reduce the Risk of Arthritis?

“Overall, maintaining a healthy weight and lifestyle and avoiding traumatic events is the best way to prevent osteoarthritis,” says Dr. R. Brian Williams, Orthopedic Specialists’ hand and wrist expert in Palm Harbor 

It's not clear if supplements like omega-3 fatty acids and glucosamine and chondroitin help, but our doctors believe they can't hurt.

So while arthritis is not caused by knuckle cracking, the board-certified, fellowship-trained doctors at Orthopedic Specialists provide a range of treatments for this common ailment. We also offer expertise in wrist and hand conditions. Schedule an evaluation by calling 727 496-2391.