Many of us feel relaxed after hearing a pop sound when we crack knuckles. However, some people say that cracking knuckles can result in arthritis.
The answer to that myth is in what happens when you crack your knuckles. The pop sound is created due to the bubbles popping in synovial fluid, which keeps the joints lubricated.
When we pull apart the bones at the joints by stretching or bending backwards, it creates a negative pressure, producing a cracking sound.
For many people this action provides relief and alleviates the tension between the joints, loosening up and making them more mobile.
According to doctors, cracking of knuckles does not lead to osteoarthritis, the most common type of arthritis associated with it. This condition occurs due to age or genetic factors.
While no study suggests that cracking joints can lead to arthritis, you should still avoid it as it may cause injury and inflammation, especially in the neck.