Cracking your knuckles may be oddly satisfying but has long been considered a bad habit and is linked to conditions such as arthritis and joint damage. But is there any truth behind that knuckle cracking leading to arthritis, or is it just another medical myth? With joint health being a growing concern, especially among young adults, it is important to break the myths associated with arthritis and understand the facts behind it to manage arthritis effectively.

In a conversation with Jagran English, Dr. Akhil Goel, Consultant - Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology, Manipal Hospital, Jaipur busted several myths about arthritis.

Myths About Arthritis

Myth 1: Cracking your knuckles causes arthritis
Fact: Many people regularly crack their knuckles, simply because it makes their fingers feel relaxed and looser for a while. There is no solid evidence that links knuckle-cracking to arthritis. However, the sound of cracking, heard as a ‘pop,’ is also not due to bone damage but the popping sound is due to gas bubbles in the joint fluid and does not damage the cartilage.

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Myth 2: Exercise makes arthritis worse
Fact: People with arthritis often find it hard to exercise but a lack of movement can worsen the symptoms of pain and stiffness. Using your joints builds muscle health and improves blood supply, all of which can help keep your joints functioning better.

Myth 3: Drinking water while standing causes joint damage
Fact: Arthritis is a result of multiple factors. A lot of people develop it with age, as joints begin to wear and tear over time. Some types of arthritis also happen after injuries that damage the joint. Tobacco use, family history, autoimmune diseases and obesity may also make people more prone to it but habits like drinking while standing are highly unlikely to cause the condition.

Myth 4: Only older adults develop arthritis
Fact: Arthritis is not limited to the elderly. It can affect people of all ages, including children and young adults. Some types of arthritis are linked to autoimmune conditions or other health factors apart from ageing.

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Protecting Against Arthritis: What To Do?

Maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly, staying hydrated and receiving appropriate treatment in case of joint injuries are necessary to protect yourself from arthritis. A combination of medication, physical therapy and lifestyle changes is helpful in managing arthritis. You also need to watch out for these symptoms and take action accordingly:

1. Pain in one or more joints that does not go away, or seems to worsen with time
2. Joints may appear red and swollen. You may also feel some warmth upon touching them.
3. Affected joints often become strict, due to which movement is restricted.
4. You may experience trouble moving your joints the normal way.