“Doctor, I love cracking my knuckles. My grandma says I’ll get arthritis. Is that true?”
This age-old myth has echoed through generations. As an orthopaedic surgeon, I’ve heard it countless times. Let’s crack the truth open.
What Happens When You Crack Your Knuckles?
That popping sound comes from a phenomenon called cavitation. When you pull or stretch a joint, you reduce pressure in the joint capsule, causing gas bubbles to rapidly collapse. It’s harmless—just a pressure release, not bone grinding!
Does Cracking Cause Arthritis?
There’s no scientific evidence that cracking causes arthritis. A landmark study by Dr. Donald Unger, who cracked the knuckles on one hand for 60 years, found no difference in arthritis compared to his non-cracking hand. Several reviews echo this finding (JAMA, 1998; The Journal of the American Board of Family Medicine, 2011).
When Should You Worry?
- Pain during or after cracking
- Swelling or warmth over joints
- Locking, clicking, or instability in joints
These may indicate a ligament or cartilage issue—not due to cracking, but worth an evaluation.
The OrthoCure Perspective
Cracking your knuckles isn’t a ticket to arthritis. But if you experience joint pain or stiffness, let’s not ignore it. At OrthoCure Bone & Joint Speciality Clinic, we focus on evidence-based orthopaedic care that respects your curiosity and treats your concerns with science, not superstition.
Book an Appointment with Dr. Sumesh