Does Cracking Your Knuckles Cause Arthritis? The Truth About Cracking Knuckles Explained By AIIMS Expert

Many people crack their knuckles habitually almost every time without even thinking about it at all. They often wonder if cracking their knuckles can lead to painful arthritis or other serious joint issues later.

Some people have this habit daily, while others only do it in tense or boring situations and moments. Many people ask if it wears down the cartilage in joints or leads to arthritis over the long years. 

Myth-Buster: Will Cracking Your Knuckles Doom You to Arthritis?

Dr. Priyanka Sehrawat, a neurologist from AIIMS Delhi, shared an educational medical video reel on Instagram with caption, "Cracking knuckles can lead to Arthritis ! Watch the video to know if this is true 👍Let’s be AWARE 🫡". She clearly calls the long-held idea that cracking knuckles causes arthritis a complete myth.

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A post shared by Dr.Priyanka Sehrawat (@docpriyankasehrawat)

She also adds that it is not pathological or a progressive disease and needs no treatment. People really do not need to worry about developing any joint issues from cracking knuckles, according to the expert's advice. 

What's That Sound? A Look Inside Your Joints

The expert explains that knuckle joints contain synovial fluid, which is filled with many tiny gas bubbles. When someone cracks their knuckles, many of these gas bubbles burst quickly and make a loud popping noise. 

It is just a physical reaction and not any direct, really harmful action on bones or cartilage. So, that loud popping really does not show any sign of weakening bones or causing severe arthritis later.

To Crack or Not to Crack: Is It Harmless or Helpful?

Ultimately, cracking knuckles remains a completely harmless habit for most people who truly enjoy the feeling very much. In fact, it can also sometimes help relieve tension in fingers or soothe restless fingers during waiting times. 

However, overdoing it may really irritate soft tissues, so people sometimes should avoid cracking excessively. If someone feels pain or swelling, they should give their fingers a break and rest for a while.

Cracking knuckles really does not cause arthritis, according to the AIIMS expert. Just crack responsibly and avoid any pain or swelling for healthy joints in the future.