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Snapping the fingers is a common habit, as are warnings and warnings that it does harm and causes damage such as thickening joints, popularly known as "joints", or causing loss of hand strength. However, there are scientific and experimental studies that prove that snapping the fingers does not hurt, does not make the joints larger or reduces strength, and is not a risk factor for osteoarthritis of the hands.
An experiment carried out by doctor Donald Unger, who snapped the fingers of his left hand daily, but not the fingers of his right, for 60 years, proved that, after that time, there were no differences between the hands, nor signs indicating arthritis or osteoarticular diseases.
In addition to this experience, other research evaluated image examinations of people who have the habit of snapping their fingers and compared them with people who do not, as well as analyzing the time and times that people snapped their fingers a day, and were also not detected differences or harms due to this practice. That is, if this habit brings relief, there is no reason not to.
What happens when you snap your fingers
The crack occurs in the joints, which are regions where two bones or more connect, and in order for them to be able to move, they use the synovial fluid that is in the joints. The popping noise occurs due to the formation of a small gas bubble inside this liquid, but the popping does not reach the solid components of these joints. Therefore, these noises are just bubbles of gas that burst, not causing stress or injury.
Why people snap their fingers
Snapping the fingers is a practice capable of bringing well-being and relief to those who perform it, and in most cases, people click simply for the sake of habit or because they like to hear the noise.
In addition, some feel and believe that snapping the fingers frees space in the joint, leaving it less tense and more mobile. Others see the practice as a way to occupy their hands when nervous, using this practice to combat stress.
When snapping your fingers can cause injury
Although the practice of snapping the fingers does not cause any injury, the excess of force and the exaggeration of times when the fingers snap can cause damage to the joint and even rupture in the ligaments. This is because when you snap your fingers, it takes about 20 minutes for it to pop again, as this is how long the gases need to form a new bubble. If the joint is forced during this period, or even if too much force is used to snap the fingers, injuries can occur.
An indication of injury, such as arthritis, for example, is to feel severe pain at the moment of the snap of the fingers or the joint to be aching and swollen for a long time. If this happens, it is advisable to seek medical attention. Check out more about arthritis, its symptoms and treatments.
As for the rest of the body's joints, there are not enough studies to say whether the cracking habit causes harm.
How to stop popping
Although the practice of snapping your fingers is not harmful, many people may be uncomfortable or distracted by the noise, which is why some people want to stop.
The ideal for those who want to stop snapping their fingers is to identify the cause of the snap, become aware of this action and choose practices such as stretching and other ways to relieve anxiety and stress such as occupying your hands by squeezing the anti-stress balls or trying others methods that can assist in this process. Here are some natural ways to fight stress and anxiety.