Cracking fingers/knuckles

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Edit: I would save that question for an interview when they ask if you have any questions.
 
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I'm asking SDN's advice because I think it has to do with dentistry because your always working with your hands. And yes, I've heard that it doesn't affect anything, but I also know that when it's cold out or some other circumstances, that my fingers feel more slow, and also my fingers feel fatter sometimes because of cracking them. So I thought maybe it wasnt too good for me. I plan to try and stop soon anyway
 
I would just try and stop. I mean, it's not beneficial in any way so why would you want to keep it around? Just stop yourself every time you're about to do it and soon you won't even think about it. I use to to do the same thing but I just let it go over time.
 
one step at a time. bite your finger nails for now instead 🙂
 
OMG I've been thinking about this for a while! I crack my knuckles like it's my job! I don't know how to stop! I don't want to go up to a patient crack all my knuckles and say open wide, they'll be terrified! 😱
 
Yea exactly lol. And I've told my self, " ok I'm gonna quit", but its such a crazy habit that I'll crack my fingers after making a promise to myself, and not
even really notice that I cracked them untill after! It's crazy but I know I can stop
 
It's time you all approach this topic the expected way.... Pubmed it.



J Am Board Fam Med. 2011 Mar-Apr;24(2):169-74.
Knuckle cracking and hand osteoarthritis.

Deweber K, Olszewski M, Ortolano R.
Department of Family Medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD.
Abstract

BACKGROUND: Previous studies have not shown a correlation between knuckle cracking (KC) and hand osteoarthritis (OA). However, one study showed an inverse correlation between KC and metacarpophalangeal joint OA.


CONCLUSIONS: A history of habitual KC-including the total duration and total cumulative exposure-does not seem to be a risk factor for hand OA.
 
I had this same question, but I am going into medical school this year. I was curious to see if many surgeons pop their knuckles, and if so, whether it affects their technique at all.
 
As a Pre-Dent, should I get out of the habit of cracking my fingers and knuckles?


Naa

Just add the habit of slamming your hands and fingers between the door....

I mean... It is just your joints, and who cares about that cartridge anyways....
 
It's time you all approach this topic the expected way.... Pubmed it.



J Am Board Fam Med. 2011 Mar-Apr;24(2):169-74.
Knuckle cracking and hand osteoarthritis.

Deweber K, Olszewski M, Ortolano R.
Department of Family Medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD.
Abstract

BACKGROUND: Previous studies have not shown a correlation between knuckle cracking (KC) and hand osteoarthritis (OA). However, one study showed an inverse correlation between KC and metacarpophalangeal joint OA.


CONCLUSIONS: A history of habitual KC-including the total duration and total cumulative exposure-does not seem to be a risk factor for hand OA.

METHODS: We conducted a retrospective case-control study among persons aged 50 to 89 years who received a radiograph of the right hand during the last 5 years. Patients had radiographically proven hand OA, and controls did not. Participants indicated frequency, duration, and details of their KC behavior and known risk factors for hand OA.


Not the best way to get good juicy data....

5 years ages 50 to 89


OP is less than 25 years old.....

There is no correlation to OP and this study.
 
as a grown individual, you should get out of the habit
 
I'm asking SDN's advice because I think it has to do with dentistry because your always working with your hands. And yes, I've heard that it doesn't affect anything, but I also know that when it's cold out or some other circumstances, that my fingers feel more slow, and also my fingers feel fatter sometimes because of cracking them. So I thought maybe it wasnt too good for me. I plan to try and stop soon anyway

You are a hypercondriac. Everyone's fingers get slow when they are very cold.

as a grown individual, you should get out of the habit

Why?
 
This one surgeon did a self study where he cracked his knuckles multiple times a day for his entire career, to no ill effects. I'd have to dig it up, but it's been posted here before.
 
This one surgeon did a self study where he cracked his knuckles multiple times a day for his entire career, to no ill effects. I'd have to dig it up, but it's been posted here before.
Yes, I remember reading that one too.
 
Potential physical ailments aside, it's an annoying habit and if you are going to be a dentist working closely with your staff, stop for their sake.
 
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