Bodyworkers are one of the many types of professionals who physically and repeatedly rely on hand strength and dexterity for optimal work performance. Knuckle cracking is an unconscious custom practiced by many who rely on their hands in an attempt to loosen or relax the phalanges.
Controversy has long surrounded the benefit and/or detriment of knuckle cracking. While some claim the end result of knuckle cracking is arthritic hands, others tout it as a completely normal and healthy act. Whether you do it yourself, administer treatments to or simply care for a chronic cracker, being familiar with the anatomy, physiology and possible pathology of this habit can help in sorting out the details of this on-going debate.
What occurs during knuckle cracking?