Why is it bad to pop your knuckles, fingers, etc..?

Question:

I have heard that it is really bad for you, but I don't know why. What does it do? I pop my fingers at least once an hour.

Answers:
It is more of a myth than fact. It is NOT as bad as it has been said (and the reason we say it is bad is probably because it must annoy others around).

There are good and bad sides to it, so read on the small article on howstuffworks.com -- it is very very informative---

excerpt from the article-

"only one in-depth study regarding the possible detriments of knuckle popping has been published. This study, done by Raymond Brodeur and published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, examined 300 knuckle crackers for evidence of joint damage. The results revealed no apparent connection between joint cracking and arthritis; however, habitual knuckle poppers did show signs of other types of damage, including soft tissue damage to the joint capsule and a decrease in grip strength. This damage is most likely a result of the rapid, repeated stretching of the ligaments surrounding the joint."

I am pretty sure it's an old wives tale, pop away.

More Questions and Answers

The consumer health information on youqa.com is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for any medical conditions.
The answer content post by the user, if contains the copyright content please contact us, we will immediately remove it.

Why is it bad to pop your knuckles, fingers, etc..?

Health Resources