Skip to main content

Why do your knuckles pop? - Eleanor Nelsen

5,637,439 Views

35,777 Questions Answered

TEDEd Animation

Let’s Begin…

Some people love the feeling of cracking their knuckles, while others cringe at the sound. But what causes that trademark pop? And is it dangerous? Eleanor Nelsen gives the facts behind joint popping.

Why do you have to wait about twenty minutes before you can pop a joint again?

About TED-Ed Animations

TED-Ed Animations feature the words and ideas of educators brought to life by professional animators. Are you an educator or animator interested in creating a TED-Ed Animation? Nominate yourself here »

Meet The Creators

  • Director Steve Belfer
  • Animator James Jacob, Michelle Tessier
  • Educator Eleanor Nelsen
  • Sound Designer Cem Misirlioglu
  • Narrator Addison Anderson

More from Getting Under Our Skin