Does cracking your knuckles give you Arthritis?

You are ready for the big , tennis tournament. You get on the field and get ready to hit the ball with your bat. Your forehand swing makes the crowd erupt. Finally, you get a break! You sit against the pole while you crack your knuckles to loosen them.

“If you crack your knuckles you will get Arthritis,” says my friend.

I stop and look at my hand. I wonder, does cracking your knuckles give you Arthritis? Lets pop this balloon to find out!

What is Arthritis?

Arthritis is inflammation in the joints. This can also happen in the eyes, heart, or skin. Most treatments help people with Arthritis to lead a normal productive life. The word came from Greek word arthron, which means joint and -itis which means inflammation.

Does cracking your knuckles give you Arthritis?

No, it does not give you Arthritis. The classic pop from the knuckles happen from the bubbles releasing in the synovial fluid. The myth was an old-mothers tale to stop kids from cracking their knuckles. Although, it can lead to the decrease of grip strength.

Sources

https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/knuckle-cracking-annoying-and-harmful-or-just-annoying-2018051413797

https://www.britannica.com/science/arthritis

https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/arthritis




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