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Knuckle cracking: when should you worry?

Is it bad if your joints crack a lot?

Is it bad if your joints crack a lot?

Creaking and snapping joints might be annoying, but they usually are nothing to worry about, says orthopedic surgeon Kim L. Stearns, MD. “It’s a normal, common occurrence,” he says. But if the constant cracking is coupled with consistent pain or swelling, that can be a sign that something is wrong.

Knuckle cracking: when should you worry?

Knuckle cracking that occurs when you bend your ankle, open and close your hands, or move your neck, does not indicate a serious medical condition, except in very rare cases.

Causes of cracking joints

There are several causes that may lead to joint cracking , some of which may be normal, while others are cause for concern. They are as follows: 

  1. osteoarthritis: Joint surfaces can become increasingly rough due to the loss of cartilage or the development of the spurs associated with osteoarthritis, causing your joints to emit rattling noises when moving.
  2. Ligament movement: Ligaments are made of strong fibrous connective tissue that connects bones together. Ligaments can be tight, snap when they move suddenly, or rotate at an unusual angle. This can cause a painful sound, or it may not cause pain at all.
  3. Physiotherapy: Therapeutic procedures and massage can cause a crackling sound when releasing tight joints or movement. It is worth noting that physiotherapy and massage sessions should only be carried out by an experienced specialist.
  4. Nitrogen bubbles: The tissues of the joints usually produce synovial fluid, which lubricates the surrounding area, protecting it from erosion during movement. It can consist of nitrogen bubbles – one of this components of liquid in your joints, which issued the voice of the pop when you walk, or practice sports , or waking up.
  5. Surgery or injury: Cracking can occur frequently after joint surgery or joint injury, especially during recovery, flexibility and mobility. Joint cracking can persist if the ligaments form scar tissue, known as adhesions.
  6. Ligament tears: The crackling sound of joints may be related to an actual ligament tear , causing you pain and swelling. 
  7. Muscular tendons: Tendons are made of fibrous connective tissue, which attaches muscles to bones, and may make popping sounds as they go around the joint. 

When to see a doctor?

You should see a doctor if joint cracking is accompanied by some of the other symptoms, including the following:

  • the pain
  • swelling
  • bruising
  • inability to move

source : wikipedia 

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