Wondering what that cracking noise is in the joints while practicing yoga or stretching?

There are a few answers to this. When a joint is moved in or out of its regular positioning, gas escapes from synovial fluid in the joint. Ligaments stretching and releasing can also create sound.

According to international yoga teacher, Judith Lasater, sound comes from tendons moving across joints or from arthritic changes in the joints.

While it is usually normal, do pay attention. If symptoms change or if pain/swelling accompanies the popping or cracking noise, seek the advice of a qualified health professional.

While sometimes a pain in the neck, this is a common area to notice cracking. Synovial fluid is present around all the joints and contains carbon dioxide and nitrogen gas. These gases can form bubbles.

Moving the neck can cause the bubbles to burst and make a popping sound, known as cavitation. Otherwise, consider that crack a hello from your body to you!