Check this out!!!! ( http://www.panix.xom~iaork/knuckles.html -- you may click on the title above to link directly to this.)
I started cracking or popping my knuckles at about age 9, in hopes to make my long fingers, less gangly looking.

Once you start, you can't stop. I have tried to go a long period without doing it, and to be honest, it hurts. I never knew why, but am relieved to learn that it does NOT in fact, cause arthritis.

Does this mean its not bad for me? No, its not good to mess with joints. I may have other problems later on, as listed in the article above. But just the same, I find comfort in knowing I am not setting myself up to have arthritis in my hands. If I do develop it, then you can bet your buns.. it has another cause.

And in case you were wondering...my fingers are still long and gangly looking. So all my efforts were in vain.

Well, there. That's all I have to say about that.