Why do my joints crack?

27 May Why do my joints crack?

Most of us have experienced this every now and again – the snap, crackle and pop of your knuckles, neck, toes and everything in between. This can be a loud noise and you may wonder, what just happened!? This may also be associated with feelings of worry that something is wrong, or maybe you might be feeling, “that felt really good!” Let me explain what is going on…

This is what the science says is happening when your joints crack…

Associating joint cracking with something wrong with the body or an abnormality is a common misconception. No research has shown a definitive link between the noise your hear and pathology. In fact, studies have shown people with no pain, 99% had some sort of joint cracking/popping.

So why do my joints crack?

Escaping Gas!

The space between two connecting bones (joint) is encompassed by a capsule filled with synovial fluid. The most common cause of cracking is when a quick stretch of a joint causes compression of gas bubbles within the fluid to pop, which causes a clicking noise. This is why you may not be able to continuously crack your joints as it takes time for the big bubbles to form again.

It is important to note as we age our joints can tend to get noisier! This is normal. For example in the knee, fluid normally flows through a slightly rough surface under the kneecap and this may cause a fine grating noise. Remember if it does not cause pain, then don’t worry!

Myth busting!

There are many theories that cracking your joints leads to an earlier onset of arthritis. The positive news is that this is completely unfounded and there is no research to support this claim. Habitual knuckle cracking DOES NOT increase the risk for arthritis.

In summary

We should not think that the many sounds that our joints make are a sign of pathology, but as a positive sign, because our joints are mobile and well lubricated. As long as the cracking is not accompanied with pain then it is harmless and you shouldn’t be worried. If joint cracking is accompanied with pain, limited motion or joint swelling, then book in to see a physiotherapist at a2z Health group whom will assess and treat the underlying cause of your pain and help you achieve your goals.