An old belief still exists that cracking knuckle joints leads to arthritis. Research put this theory to the test.
Studies performed in the mid 1970’s and again 2011 proved that no connection exists between cracking
knuckles and arthritis. Dr. Donald Unger, a medical doctor, earned an Ig Nobel Prize in 2009 for his sixty-year
study to prove that knuckle cracking did not contribute to arthritis. Not only did no correlation exist between
knuckle cracking and hand arthritis, but the earlier research also showed a completely opposite effect. People
who regularly cracked the knuckle joints in their hand experienced less arthritis than those who did not. These
findings help further clarify the benefits and unique value of long term Chiropractic adjustments on the spine.
Knuckle joints in the hand share nearly identical characteristics to many of the joints that connect vertebrae
in the spine. A myth once existed amongst people who believed regular Chiropractic visits weakened the
spine. Unfounded fears also lead some people to believe that consistent Chiropractic care from birth through
adulthood contributes to the development of arthritis. These myths and fears never withstood the rigor of
science and research. The evidence found among millions of Chiropractic patients around the world, both past
and present, attest to the fact that regular Chiropractic adjustments both improve and prevent many forms of
arthritis.
Science explains how regular and frequent Chiropractic
check-ups and adjustments improve the integrity of the
spine and function of the nervous system. Research and
clinical outcomes suggest the best way to utilize Chiropractic
comes through consistent and frequent (weekly)
adjustments over the course of a lifetime. Regular attention
given to the spine helps increase the strength, durability,
and movement of the spine while balancing the function of
the autonomic nervous system. Many disease processes
directly result from an imbalanced autonomic nervous
system. Heart disease, immune deficiencies, attention
problems, breathing troubles, and many more autonomicrelated dysfunctions originate with an unhealthy and
imbalanced nervous system. Resolution of many symptoms
and conditions occur by balancing the nervous system
through regular and frequent Chiropractic adjustments.
Whether a small knuckle joint found in the hand or a bigger joint located in the spine, movement plays a
crucial role in preventing degeneration of any joint in the body. The spine uniquely connects to the nervous
system, and increasing movement in the spinal joints helps the brain and nervous system function at optimal
levels. Chiropractic changes the brain and prevents arthritis and degeneration by improving movement and
spinal alignment in all ages from infants to adults.