16 Nov Worried that your Joints Crack Often?
An occasional crackle and pop of joints is not uncommon. But if your joints crack often, you need to see a doctor.
Cracks, pops or snaps can be experienced in the shoulders, elbows, hands, wrists, feet, ankles, knees and even the jaw. Here are the most common reasons for your joints popping and cracking.
Gas Bubbles
The popping sound you hear when you crack your knuckles is mainly due to gas bubbles. The lubricating synovial fluid present in the joints contains oxygen, nitrogen and carbon dioxide. Upon cracking the knuckles, these gas bubbles get released creating a pop or snap.
Sudden Movement
The pop or snap can also be caused by stretching of fluid-filled sacs, within the joints, due to a sudden change in the joint’s position.
Wear and Tear
The cushioning cartilage on the ends of the bones at joint wears away with age. Worn out articular cartilage causes joint surfaces to rub against each other and makes them rough. Rubbing of these rough bone surfaces may also cause sounds.
Overuse
Repetitive motion or exercises can lead to overuse and rubbing which causes friction around the bone.
If you have noticed increased joint noises that do not go away on their own or pops and snaps that are accompanied by swelling and pain, seek medical advice.
If you are looking for pain management doctors, internal medicine doctors or mobile doctor services in San Diego, call Pacific Medical Care at 619-333-8114 or visit www.pacificmedicalcare.net. Mobile doctor services from Pacific Medical include services of highly qualified and experienced doctors who put the patient ‘first’, no matter how simple or complex the issue is.
No Comments