Is it bad to crack your joints and ligaments?

Hi Shana!

Thank you for sharing your question with the EmpowHER community! A lot of people crack their joints, but I wonder if you are cracking out of habit or because you are having pain? Please let me know...

Is it bad for your health? Most experts say it's not bad for your health. It is unlikely you can apply enough force to your own spine or other areas to cause nerve or muscle damage. However, premature breakdown can happen to the joints if you do it often. Experts suggest that simple stretching can help to alleviate the tension you feel in these areas. Stretching after a hot shower or hot tub can work wonders and feel great too! Have you tried yoga?

Many people crack their knuckles to relieve stress or is out of habit. Experts suggest that cracking your knuckles will not cause arthritis. Here's a video from our community to support that theory. 

https://www.empowher.com/arthritis/content/can-cracking-your-knuckles-cause-arthritis-dr-ruderman-video

I hope this answers your question Shana! If this persists, you could always schedule a consultation with a Chiropractor just to be sure there's no underlying problems.

Please let our readers understand why you crack your joints. It would be helpful for those who are also concerned.

Best,

Kristin