Is cracking bones harmful?

Question

Is cracking bones like knuckles or neck harmful in any way? Some people say it causes arthritus and others say its not harmful at all.

Answer 1

I am a joint-cracker myself, but I honestly don't have a yes or no answer for you. However, I have heard from a couple of doctors (one a chiropractor - consider the source) that cracking does not cause arthritis. Here is something else that supports that from about.com:

"Does the joint cracking cause arthritis?
It's unlikely that joint cracking is a significant cause of arthritis. Joint cracking is usually painless, and so long as it does not cause pain, most doctors agree that you are unlikely to be doing any harm. There are some conditions that can cause a joint cracking that need to be addressed, but these tend to cause symptoms of pain.
If you have joint cracking that cause pain, you should be evaluated by your doctor. Otherwise, you are not likely to be causing any problems, including arthritis, by your joint cracking."

I am starting to have some joint pain that could be pre-stages of arthritis, however it runs in my family and my job is not exactly conducive to healthy joints. For now I think I'll stick with the "If it feels good, do it!" philosophy.

Answer 2

there is a packet of fluid used to lubricate joints, sinovial fluid.
this is generally what cracks. neck i believe to be joints popping back into OR out of place. go and see a chiropractor, they are awesome and only the good ones massage before adjusting you, do you homework!!
get cracking!!

Answer 3

It's not harmful

Doctors say that there is air bubbles in your knuckles (when you crack your knuckles then your popping those bubbles)
They also say its not harmful but it does make your fingers fat

Answer 4

Never crack your bones otherwise you will have problems in the later course.

Answer 5

Nope..
Not harmful