Ladies, who here is addicted to cracking their fingers? For some people, this is an enjoyable activity, but others may be bothered by the resulting sound. Curious, is cracking your fingers potentially harmful to joint health? Find out the answer in this Fitie article!
Cracking finger joints is certainly attracting a lot of attention. Some say it shouldn't be done because it's dangerous to the joints, but many others oppose it. According to Ladies, what are the reasons people do it? Or what is the right reason according to your personal opinion?
- Enjoying the sound produced when moving finger joints
- Providing relief and improving finger movement
- Distracting attention or reducing tension to alleviate feelings of anxiety or stress
- Has become a daily habit to the point of no longer doing it consciously (considered a habit when it's done five times or more)
Cracking finger joints aims to enjoy the sound, provide relief, distract attention, and has become a daily habit
Origin of the Sound
The sound that occurs when we crack or move finger joints is still not fully understood. However, there are two opinions about the origin of that sound. First, it is related to the release of nitrogen gas in the joint fluid. Second, it is related to the movement of ligaments around the finger joints.
However, a study in 2015 using MRI found that the sound is caused by the formation of cavitation due to negative pressure formed when the joint is quickly pulled. This cavity will then return to its original state after 20 minutes. Therefore, we cannot crack it repeatedly in a short period of time.
Risks and Side Effects
In general, cracking finger joints should not cause pain, swelling, or changes in joint shape. Simply put, moving these fingers is not harmful. If certain problems arise, the likelihood is that there are other underlying issues, such as gout or joint inflammation.
As long as you don't move them forcefully or force them to sound, the fingers will not have any problems. On the other hand, if moved or pressed too hard, there is a risk of injuring the joints or surrounding ligaments. They may also appear bent or swollen. Therefore, try to reconsider how this habit is done.
Cracking finger joints is not harmful to joint health
Tips to Break the Habit
Although not classified as dangerous, you still need to be aware of why you do it. This is because if the cause is stress, there are many other coping strategies you can do to relieve it, instead of putting yourself in a situation that may pose a risk. Let's follow the following tips!
- Find out why you do it, for example, nervousness, stress, or it has become a routine habit
- Once you know the reason behind it, find other alternatives to alleviate it. For example, better preparation if you don't want to be nervous, meditation or deep breathing exercises if stressed, or journaling to calm your mind
- Make your days more productive, for example, by engaging in beneficial activities such as knitting, cleaning the house, sharing kindness, or other activities you enjoy
- Be aware every time you do it and stop as soon as possible
Cracking finger joints may be a fun activity for some people, and its side effects are minimal. However, there is still a risk of injury if done forcefully. Instead of continuing this habit, try engaging in other activities that are more beneficial. Not only to prevent joint injuries, but also to increase your productivity!
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