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Pain and crackles in the joints
How do you define joint crunches?
Joint cracking is a common and mild phenomenon. They can occur spontaneously during movement and affect all joints: vertebrae, phalanges, knee, hip, etc.
These crunches are not a cause for concern and, contrary to some beliefs, they do not cause damage to the joints, even when they are intentional (some people for example crack their fingers several times a day).
On the other hand, if the crunches are accompanied by pain, they can be the sign of a joint problem and should lead to a consultation.
What are the causes of cracking joints?
Several hypotheses have been put forward to explain the causes of these frequent joint crunches.
It seems that they are mainly due to the pressure variation in the fluid around the joints (synovial fluid), which causes gas bubbles (nitrogen) to form. As they expand rapidly, these bubbles make a characteristic “cracking” sound.
These sounds are therefore harmless, unless they are accompanied by pain or swelling indicating joint inflammation.
In this case, there may be an abnormality in the joint, such as the presence of a loose piece of cartilage or a damaged ligament.
Some people with osteoarthritis, bursitis or tendonitis notice unusual crackles, probably related to the inflammation of the joint.
If the cracking appears after a trauma, it is preferable to consult: it may reflect a lesion of the joint and it will be necessary to undergo a precise clinical examination.
What are the consequences of cracking joints?
Contrary to popular belief, cracking your joints on purpose does not increase the risk of osteoarthritis or damage them.
You can therefore crack your knuckles or stretch your vertebrae without fear.
What are the solutions for cracking joints?
As we have seen, joint cracking is benign and inconsequential, unless it is accompanied by pain.
In this case, it is necessary to consult to ensure that the joint is not damaged. In the event of osteoarthritis, analgesic treatments such as paracetamol (acetaminophen) are offered first.
Between attacks, it is important not to stay still and to continue to practice regular physical activity, to maintain the strength and mobility of the joint.
DMARDs can also provide relief for some people with osteoarthritis, although their effectiveness is not clearly demonstrated.
Osteopathy or physiotherapy sessions can help “correct” or relieve certain joint disorders, if necessary.
Read also :Our fact sheet on tendonitis What you need to know about osteoarthritis |