Why Do We Hear Our Toes Crack?

Do you usually hear your toes crack? Or when it does, are you scared that it might be due to a serious health issue?

Your toes' sound when you bend or crack them is usually painless is not something that you should worry about. Perhaps it is just a harmless cracking or popping of your toes.

However, it could be a severe illness signal that you should be concerned, if it does cause you pain. For example, it could be arthritis or other conditions that include past toe injuries, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, bone spurs, and gout.

Why Do We Hear Cracking Toes?

There are a few reasons why toes crack and pop. Below are some of the theories according to Superior Foor & Ankle Center:

• Escaping gas- The leading theory states that the cracking sound comes from the release of tiny bubbles that build up in the synovial fluid. This fluid contains oxygen, nitrogen, and carbon dioxide. The gases form bubbles that when released cause a popping sound when the joint capsule is stretched.
• Joints, Ligaments, and Tendons Moving- Every time you move a joint, a tendon could change its position and moves slightly out of place. You could hear a popping sound when it returns to its original place. Also, ligaments create a cracking sound as it may tighten as you move your joints.
• Rough Spots- There are some cases where the cracking and popping sound is caused by the loss of smooth cartilage and the joints roughness.

Underlying Health Issues That May Cause the Popping of Toes

Although cracking and popping toes are generally normal, there could be at times that it might be caused by underlying health issues that could present a bigger problem. Here are some underlying health conditions that cause cracking and popping toes according to Very Well Health:

• Bone Spurs- These are bony projections that develop along the ridge where bones meet. The popping sound from it is because the smooth cartilage rubs with the rough surface, much like arthritis. It can cause pain it is moved and could be a sign of osteoarthritis.
• Gout- It could be signed of several symptoms that cause and swelling. Gout is a form of arthritis that occurs when the person's uric acid crystals are deposited in the joints, which causes them pain that may come and go.
• Osteoarthritis/Rheumatoid Arthritis- Arthritis could cause popping toes. Both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis could cause deterioration of the bones, particularly the joints. The popping sound could be heard as the joint moves when the smooth cartilage rubs against the rough, deteriorating bone.
• Past Toe Injuries- There are also times when you hear a crack on your toes is because it is aggravating a previous injury, like a fracture or severely stubbed toe. The cracking and popping sound alerts you that you are moving a broken toe, especially if it causes pain. Consult a doctor immediately to avoid further aggravating the injury.

Check out more news and information on Arthritis on Science Times.