Cracking your fingers might seem harmless, but it can irritate those around you and potentially harm your health.
According to researchers, 25% to 54% of people have this habit. Men are more likely to crack their fingers than women. While it may feel soothing, it can cause discomfort to others nearby.
How to break the habit?
Keep your hands busy — spin a pen or coin.
Carry hand cream and apply it whenever you feel like cracking.
Ask close friends or family to remind you when you start.
Use a stress ball and perform finger stretches regularly.
Interesting facts about finger cracking
After cracking one finger, you can’t do it again for 15–20 minutes — the gases need time to reabsorb into the joint fluid.
Cracking doesn’t cause hand tremors. If your hands shake, consult a neurologist.
X-rays during cracking show air bubbles in the joints. The act might calm you but can annoy others.
