Is Cracking Your Knuckles Bad? What Research Really Says
If you love that satisfying pop when you stretch your fingers, you’ve probably heard someone warn: “Stop that! You’ll get arthritis!” But is it true? Does cracking your knuckles cause arthritis — or is popping your fingers safe?
As a chiropractor, I get asked this almost every week. Let’s break down the science and set the record straight.
What Happens When You Crack Your Knuckles?
When you crack or pop your fingers, you’re not damaging the joint. The popping sound comes from gas bubbles in the joint fluid releasing when the joint is stretched. It’s similar to the sound when you open a soda can — a pressure change, not bone grinding.
Does Cracking Knuckles Cause Arthritis?
Here’s the truth: Research shows that cracking your knuckles does NOT cause arthritis.
A 2011 review found no evidence of arthritis from knuckle cracking.
One doctor even performed a personal “study,” cracking the knuckles of one hand for 60 years while leaving the other alone. After decades, there was no difference in arthritis between the two hands.
So if you’re worried about arthritis, you can rest easy: knuckle cracking is safe.
Are There Any Risks to Finger Popping?
While knuckle cracking doesn’t cause arthritis, overdoing it may lead to:
Temporary swelling
Briefly reduced grip strength
Annoyed friends or coworkers 😅
But long-term harm? Science says no.
Chiropractic Insight: When to Be Concerned
If popping your fingers comes with pain, swelling, or stiffness, that’s a red flag. In that case, it’s not the cracking itself that’s the problem — it may be an underlying joint or muscle issue that needs attention.
That’s where a chiropractor can help. We look at the root cause of joint issues and help restore normal, pain-free movement.
The Bottom Line: Knuckle Cracking Is Safe
The next time someone tells you cracking your knuckles will give you arthritis, you can confidently say: “Science says that’s a myth.”
So go ahead — popping your fingers is safe. Just don’t overdo it, and if pain shows up, get checked out by a professional.
👉 Want more myth-busting, research-based advice from a chiropractor? Book an appointment with us today at ruach.janeapp.com and keep your joints happy, healthy, and pain-free.
-with Love,
Dr. Christopher Rhoten D.C.
