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Question
18 Aug 2010
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bone cracking
Dear Doc, I have a horrible habit of cracking my nuckles. Is this really bad for you? What are the long term side effects?
Also, my hips, knees, back etc cracks automatically more often everyday. Is this reason to worry? Could this be related to my SLE?
Also, my hips, knees, back etc cracks automatically more often everyday. Is this reason to worry? Could this be related to my SLE?
.
Hello Marike,
There is no evidence that cracking knuckles causes any damage such as arthritis in the joints. However, a couple of reports in the medical literature are available associating knuckle cracking with injury of the ligaments surrounding the joint or dislocation of the tendons ( attachments of muscles to bones) which improved with conservative treatment. A study found that after many years of cracking habitual knuckle crackers may have reduced grip strength compared with people not cracking their knuckles.
However as you have SLE this may be an entirely different matter and needs careful management so you you need to consult and work closely with your medical doctor.
There is no evidence that cracking knuckles causes any damage such as arthritis in the joints. However, a couple of reports in the medical literature are available associating knuckle cracking with injury of the ligaments surrounding the joint or dislocation of the tendons ( attachments of muscles to bones) which improved with conservative treatment. A study found that after many years of cracking habitual knuckle crackers may have reduced grip strength compared with people not cracking their knuckles.
However as you have SLE this may be an entirely different matter and needs careful management so you you need to consult and work closely with your medical doctor.
The information provided does not constitute a diagnosis of your condition. You should consult a medical practitioner or other appropriate health care professional for a physical examination, diagnosis and formal advice. Health24 and the expert accept no responsibility or liability for any damage or personal harm you may suffer resulting from making use of this content.
