Well, that's what the Tin Man would use! Sounds to me like he's got a build up of gas bubbles in the synovial fluid. Synovial fluid is a thick, clear lubricant (made mostly of carbon dioxide and some nitrogen) found between the bones. When joints are extended the gas dissolved in the fluid spontaneously separates from the solution, forming a small bubble, which expands and bursts thus making a cracking sound.
Not everybody's joints crack. Some people have a larger separation between the bones and some people can't relax enough to allow the bones to separate.
I wouldn't worry about it! But if it bothers you so much try snapping your gum back at him!
Posts: 9192 | Location: Atlanta, GA, USA | Registered: 06-03-02
The above post is mostly accurate, although the fluid is not mostly carbon dioxide and nitrogen, the gases disolved within it are. And it's true that if there's no pain, it may not be very serious, but such cracking as you describe in a weight-bearing joint could also be due to other things. The only way to find out is to see his doc and get some xrays; but, again, if he has no pain and normal range of motion, there may not be a lot of urgency
Posts: 1505 | Location: Puget Sound, USA | Registered: 06-03-02
