Knuckle Cracking and Osteoarthrits

According to one study approximately 54% of people crack their knuckles. From time to time I am asked the question “does cracking knuckles really cause arthritis in the hands?” A 2011 study analyzed individuals knuckle cracking habits. The study found 20% of the participants crack their knuckles regularly. The results of the study showed that 18% of the individuals that cracked their knuckles on a regular basis presented with hand OA compared with those who did not at 21%.
The study concluded that a history of habitual knuckle cracking may not be a risk factor for developing hand osteoarthritis.