Cracking joints

Cracking joints are apparently normal and benign in most people. It is common for young, healthy individuals to have problems with cracking joints, such as ankles and knees.

Cause of joint cracking

Most joint cracking is caused mostly by gases escaping from the joint. The synovial fluid in the joint acts as a lubricant. This fluid contains gases such as oxygen, carbon dioxide and nitrogen. When the joint cracks or pops, the joint capsule stretches, from which gas is released.

Another cause of cracking sound is from the movement of the joints, ligaments and tendons. When a joint moves the position of the tendon can change, when the tendor returns to its normal position, a sound is released. This is common in the ankle and the knee.

In order for the same joint to crack again, the fluid needs to return to it, which might take a little while.

Cracking sounds due to arthritic joints

Arthritic joints can make sounds due to a breakdown or loss of on the joints.

If pain is associated with the cracking or popping of joints, you should check with a doctor to find if there is an underlying condition. Otherwise, joint cracking is harmless and will not cause joint deterioration over time.

Related links

A joint crackers community can be found at http://www.jointcrackers.com