Cracking joints

Cracking joints describes the over-stretching of the finger joints by pulling on the fingers or by pressing the finger joints accompanied by cracking noises. In articular cartilage, the smooth surfaces are separated by a thin film of so-called synovial fluid ( synovial fluid ). If one extends the joint, the joint capsule, a negative pressure is generated. Here are abruptly dissolved in the liquid gases (mainly carbon dioxide) free ( cavitation). It takes several minutes until the gas is released again and the process can be repeated.

Most experts are of the view that the " Cracking joints " some people are a harmless habit also over many decades. The widespread view that this leads to arthritis, has not yet been proven. However, it may lead to swelling of the hands and a dwindling grip strength and should therefore be omitted.