Doctors' Answers to "Frequently Asked Questions" - Cracking Joints


These comments are made for the purpose of discussion and should NOT be used as recommendations for or against therapies or other treatments. An individual patient is always advised to consult their own physician.

Possible Damage
Question: Over the years this question has come up time and again. If I "crack" my back or my toes or my knuckles, just what is being "cracked"? Is it the same for all parts of the body? Is it somehow changing the alignment of bones?

Answer:"Cracking" joints is a process of stretching ligaments until the bone surfaces "pop". This may precede to joint laxity in some susceptible individuals;but, generally is of no lasting concern unless it produces pain.
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Last modified August 5, 1997