Is Cracking Fingers Your Nervous Tic? Doctors Want You To Stop It Immediately
If you find yourself frequently cracking your fingers, it’s important to be cautious. This seemingly minor behaviour can escalate into a significant issue
Many people tend to crack their fingers repeatedly throughout the day. Alarmingly, even children have taken to this habit. People often believe that cracking fingers alleviates fatigue. Experts, however, warn that this seemingly harmless habit may have negative health implications.
If you find yourself frequently cracking your fingers, it’s important to be cautious. This seemingly minor behaviour can escalate into a significant issue. It can weaken finger joints and raise the likelihood of them becoming misaligned. So, what are the consequences of frequently cracking fingers? Additionally, how can one break the habit of finger cracking?
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Dr CP Pal, principal and orthopaedic surgeon at Government Medical College Kannauj, Uttar Pradesh addresses these concerns for News18.
According to Dr Pal, joints in fingers, as well as in knees and elbows, contain a unique liquid that binds the bones together, known as synovial fluid. This fluid acts as lubrication for our joints, preventing bones from grinding against one another. The gas contained in this fluid, such as carbon dioxide, generates space, leading to bubble formation. When fingers are cracked, these bubbles pop, which could potentially result in arthritis. Moreover, for individuals already suffering from arthritis, cracking fingers may exacerbate their condition.
Greater Risk To Children
While cracking fingers occasionally may not lead to harm, frequent cracking can be detrimental. Experts indicate that excessive cracking can weaken the soft tissues in joints and increase the risk of dislocation. Furthermore, individuals who engage in this habit for an extended period face a heightened risk of developing arthritis. This behaviour is particularly perilous for children because their bones are still developing, and regular finger cracking can result in misaligned fingers and even fractures.
Tips To Overcome Habit Of Cracking Fingers
As people age, their bones naturally weaken, making it crucial for those aged 40–50 to pay special attention to their bone health. During this period, engaging in body stretches can be beneficial, though excessive stretching might be harmful.
It is advisable to incorporate calcium-rich foods into the diet to strengthen bones. Moreover, individuals should periodically check their bone density as doing so can significantly mitigate this issue.
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