Cracking joints is a common experience for many individuals. Some people make their joints crack, while others have cracking and creaking joints with normal activities. What causes a cracking joint? Different conditions may cause a cracking joint, and the problem is not always clear. In most cases, the exact cause of a crack joint cannot be determined. Some causes may include: * Gas Bubbles The slow accumulation of gases around a joint can cause the formation of tiny bubbles of gas. Joint cracking may occur when these gases are released. * Tendons or Ligaments Tendons and ligaments cross over the joints. These structures may pop or crack as they snap over the bony prominences around the joint. * Arthritis Damage to the joint surface, the cartilage, can cause cracking joints. However, this type of joint cracking usually is found in older patients who have known arthritis. It is uncommon for a patient's first complaint of arthritis to be joint cracking. Does the joint cracking cause arthritis? It's unlikely that joint cracking is a significant cause of arthritis. Joint cracking is usually painless, and so long as it does not cause pain, most doctors agree that you are unlikely to be doing any harm. There are some conditions that can cause a joint cracking that need to be addressed, but these tend to cause symptoms of pain. If you have joint cracking that cause pain, you should be evaluated by your doctor. Otherwise, you are not likely to be causing any problems, including arthritis, by your joint cracking.

i think sometimes it is okay. but not always.guess it shows how restless our mind is and moreover it not good for our fingers in the long run.

I've heard it can kick-start arthritis. Not sure if its true or not. Only one way to prove it wrong. Constantly crack my fingers for 50 years. If I don't get arthritis, I'll let you know its all bullocks. (I think I used that term right, correct me if I'm wrong)

It doesn't necessarily cause Athritis. Using the computer and doing other things that leave your joints and bones in the same position for long periods of time does. However, it does weaken the muscles in your hands and fingers, and separates the knuckles ever so slightly.

Not really cuz they make the knuckles bigger and when you get older they will really stick out, doesnt look that bad , but sure shows the bone through the skin