Cryst in the joints of the fingers: Causes and treatment
I. Anatomy and mechanics of the joints of the fingers
To understand the causes of crunch in the joints of the fingers, you must first understand their anatomical structure and mechanics. The fingers consist of phalanges – bones interconnected by joints. Each finger (except for a large, consisting of two phalanges) has three phalanxes: proximal (near palm), medium and distal (distant from the palm). Accordingly, in each finger, in addition to the thumb, there are two inter -phalanx joints: proximal (PMFS) and distal (DMFS). The thumb has only one interfalanced joint. In addition, there is a metacarpophalangeal joint (PFS), connecting the proximal phalanx with a metacarpal bone in the palm of your hand.
A. The structure of the joint:
Each joint consists of the following main components:
- Joint surfaces of the bones: The ends of the bones forming the joint are covered with smooth hyalin cartilage. This cartilage ensures the glide of the bones relative to each other, reducing friction and amortizing the load. The cartilage has no blood vessels and is powered by diffusion of substances from synovial fluid.
- The joint capsule: This is a strong shell surrounding the joint and hermetically closing it. The capsule consists of two layers: fibrous (external) and synovial (internal). The fibrous layer provides the strength and stability of the joint, and the synovial – lifes the inner surface of the capsule and produces a synovial fluid.
- Synovial fluid: This viscous fluid fills the joint cavity and performs several important functions:
- Lubricates the joint surfaces, reducing friction.
- Nourishes cartilage fabric.
- Disputes metabolic products.
- Contains immune cells that protect the joint from infections.
- Blues: These are strong fibrous structures connecting the bones and ensure the stability of the joint. The ligaments limit the range in the joint, preventing its excessive displacement. In the joints of the fingers, collateral ligaments are located on the sides of each joint, providing lateral stability.
- Muscles and tendons: The muscles located in the forearm and palms provide the movement of the fingers. Their tendons pass through the joints and attach to the phalanges. The tendons are surrounded by tendon vaginas, which facilitate their sliding and prevent friction on the bone.
B. Movement mechanics:
Movements in the joints of the fingers are carried out due to the contraction of the muscles of the forearm and palms. The tendons of these muscles are thrown through the joints and, contracting, pull the phalanx, causing flexion or extension of the fingers. Parleen-phalanx joints have more mobility than interfalanced ones, allowing the fingers to move not only in the plane of bending-extensions, but also in the plane of abduction (breeding and information of the fingers).
II. Possible causes of crunch in the joints of the fingers
A crunch in the joints of the fingers is a common phenomenon that can have various causes. In most cases, it is not a sign of a serious disease, but sometimes it may indicate the availability of joint problems.
A. Physiological reasons:
- Cavitation: The most common cause of crunch is the formation of gas bubbles in synovial fluid. A certain pressure is maintained inside the joint. When the joint is stretched, the volume of the joint cavity increases, which leads to a decrease in pressure in the synovial fluid. As a result, the gases dissolved in it (mainly oxygen, nitrogen and carbon dioxide) are released in the form of micropouses. When these bubbles burst, a characteristic sound arises – a crunch. This process is called cavitation. After the formation of gas bubbles, it takes some time (usually about 20 minutes) for their repeated dissolution in the synovial fluid, therefore, after the crunch, the re -click in the same joint is unlikely. Cavitation is a normal physiological phenomenon and does not lead to damage to the joints.
- Tendon movement: The tendons of the muscles surrounding the joints of the fingers can slide through bone protrusions or other structures. In this case, a sound similar to a crunch or click may occur. This is especially common with repeated movements or with sharp changes in the position of the fingers. Usually such a crunch is painless and does not require treatment.
- Irregularities of the articular surfaces: Minor irregularities on the surface of the articular cartilage can cause a crunch when moving. These irregularities can be congenital or acquired as a result of small injuries or microdamines. If the crunch is painless, it is not an concern.
- Age changes: With age, the cartilage of the joints becomes less elastic and more susceptible to wear. This can lead to an increase in friction between the articular surfaces and the appearance of a crunch. In addition, the amount of synovial fluid is reduced, which also contributes to the occurrence of crunch.
B. Pathological reasons:
- Osteoarthrosis (deforming arthrosis): This is the most common joint disease, characterized by progressive destruction of cartilage tissue. With osteoarthritis, the cartilage is thinner, loses its smoothness, cracks and erosion appear on its surface. As a result, the friction between the joint surfaces increases, which leads to the appearance of crunch, pain and limiting mobility. The osteoarthrosis of the fingers most often affects the distal interfalancing joints (DMFS) and leads to the formation of geserden nodules (bone growths on DMFS). The proximal inter -phalanx joint (PMFS) may also be affected, leading to the formation of Bushar nodules.
- Arthritis: This is an inflammatory joint disease, which can be caused by various causes, such as infection, autoimmune processes or injury. With arthritis, inflammation leads to damage to cartilage, synovial membrane and other joint structures. As a result, pain, swelling, redness and limitation of mobility occurs. Cryst in the joints with arthritis is often accompanied by other symptoms of inflammation.
- Rheumatoid arthritis: Autoimmune disease that affects mainly small joints of the hands and feet. With rheumatoid arthritis, the immune system attacks its own joints of the joints, causing chronic inflammation and progressive destruction of cartilage and bones. The characteristic symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis are symmetrical damage to the joints, morning stiffness, pain, swelling and redness.
- Psoriatic arthritis: Inflammatory joint disease associated with psoriasis (skin disease). Psoriatic arthritis can affect any joints, but most often the distal interphalancing joints of the fingers and legs suffer.
- Septic arthritis: Infectious joint inflammation caused by bacteria, viruses or fungi. Septic arthritis requires immediate treatment with antibiotics or other antimicrobial drugs.
- Tendinini and Tenosinovit: Tendinite is inflammation of the tendon, and tenosinovitis is inflammation of the tendon vagina. These diseases can occur as a result of overload, repeated movements or injuries. With tenditis and tenosynine, tendons and tendon vaginas become thickened and painful, which can lead to crunch or clicks when moving. Especially often there is a Tenosynovitis de Kerven, which affects the tendon of the thumb in the wrist.
- De Cerven’s disease: As already mentioned, this type of tenosynovic, affecting the tendon of the muscles that divert and extend the thumb. This leads to pain in the wrist from the side of the thumb, intensifying during movements. When the thumb moves, crunch or crepiting may occur.
- The syndrome of the clicking finger (stenotic ligamationite): The condition in which the tendon of the flexor of the finger stucks under the ring-shaped ligament in the area of the metacarpal-phalanx joint. When extending the finger, the tendon jumps sharply from under the ligament, causing a click and a feeling of jamming.
- Injuries: Injuries of the joints of the fingers, such as dislocations, subluxations, ligaments or fractures, can lead to damage to cartilage, ligaments and other joint structures. As a result, a crunch, pain and limitation of mobility may occur. Even small, it would seem, minor injuries can lead to micro -regions of the articular surfaces and, as a result, to the crunch.
- Joint instability: Damage to the ligaments surrounding the joint can lead to its instability. In this case, the joint can shift excessively when moving, causing crunch or clicks. The instability of the joints often occurs after injuries.
- Gout: The disease associated with the deposition of uric acid crystals in the joints. Gout most often affects the joints of the thumbs, but can also affect the joints of the fingers. With gout, inflammation of the joints leads to pain, swelling, redness and limitation of mobility. A crunch in the joints with gout can be associated with damage to the cartilage of uric acid crystals.
- Kinbeck disease (aseptic necrosis of the semi -moon): A rare disease in which the blood supply to the half -moon in the wrist is impaired, which leads to its necrosis (murder). Kinbek’s disease can cause pain, swelling and limitation of mobility in the wrist. A crunch in the joints of the fingers can be associated with a change in the biomechanics of the wrist due to the disease of the kinbek.
- Systemic diseases of connective tissue: Some systemic diseases, such as systemic lupus erythematosus, scleroderma and others, can affect joints and lead to inflammation, pain and crunch.
III. Diagnosis of the causes of crunch in the joints of the fingers
To determine the cause of the crunch in the joints of the fingers, you need to consult a doctor (therapist, rheumatologist, and an orthopedic traumatologist). The doctor will conduct an examination, collect an anamnesis (medical history) and prescribe the necessary studies.
A. Anamnesis and Physical Inspection:
- A history of history: The doctor will ask about the nature of the cryst (painful or painless), the frequency of its occurrence, the circumstances in which it appears, the presence of other symptoms (pain, edema, redness, limitation of mobility), as well as about the injuries and joint diseases. It is important to inform the doctor about the presence of other diseases, such as psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, gout, etc.
- Physical inspection: The doctor will examine the fingers, appreciate their mobility, the presence of edema, redness, deformations and soreness on palpation (feeling) of the joints. He will also check the strength of the muscles of the hand and appreciate the sensitivity of the fingers. The doctor can conduct special tests to evaluate the stability of the joints and identify signs of tendinitis or tenosinovitis.
B. Instrumental research methods:
- Radiography: This is the main research method to assess bone tissue. X -ray pictures can identify signs of osteoarthritis (narrowing of the joint gap, the formation of bone growths – osteophytes), fractures, dislocations, as well as other changes in the bones. However, radiography poorly visualizes cartilage and soft tissues.
- Ultrasound examination (ultrasound): Ultrasound allows you to evaluate the condition of soft tissues, such as tendons, ligaments and synovial shell. Ultrasound can identify signs of tendinitis, tenosynovitis, ruptures of ligaments, as well as the presence of liquid in the joint.
- Magnetic resonance tomography (MRI): MRI is the most informative research method to assess the state of all joint structures, including cartilage, bones, ligaments, tendons and synovial shell. MRI allows you to identify the early signs of osteoarthritis, arthritis, damage to ligaments and tendons, as well as other pathological changes. However, MRI is a more expensive study than radiography and ultrasound, and is not always available.
- Computed tomography (CT): CT is a method that uses x -rays to create detailed images of bones. CT can be useful for identifying fractures, dislocations and other bone injuries, especially in difficult cases.
C. Laboratory research methods:
- General blood test (UAC): The UAC can identify signs of inflammation (an increase in ESR – the rate of settlement of red blood cells, an increase in the number of leukocytes).
- Biochemical blood test: It may include determining the level of uric acid (to exclude gout), C-reactive protein (CRB) and rheumatoid factor (RF) (to identify signs of inflammation and autoimmune diseases).
- Analysis of synovial fluid: If there is a liquid in the joint, it can be punctured (take a sample) and send for analysis. Analysis of the synovial fluid can help identify signs of inflammation, infection or uric acid crystals (with gout).
IV. Treatment of crunch in the joints of the fingers
Treatment of crunch in the joints of the fingers depends on the cause of its occurrence. If the crunch is painless and not accompanied by other symptoms, treatment is usually not required. However, if the crunch is accompanied by pain, edema, limitation of mobility or other symptoms, you must consult a doctor to establish the diagnosis and prescribe the appropriate treatment.
A. Conservative treatment:
- Anesthetic and anti -inflammatory drugs:
- Nonsteroidal anti -inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): Ibuprofen, Diclofenac, Nimesulide and others. NSAIDs reduce pain and inflammation in the joints. It should be remembered that NSAIDs can cause side effects from the gastrointestinal tract, so they should be taken with caution and as prescribed by the doctor.
- Paracetamol: Anesthetic that does not have a pronounced anti -inflammatory effect.
- Local drugs: Ointments and gels with NSAIDs (for example, diclofenac gel, ibuprofen gel) can be used to reduce pain and inflammation in the joints of the fingers.
- Chondroprotectors: Glucosamine and chondroitin are substances that are building blocks of cartilage. It is believed that chondroprotectors can slow down the progression of osteoarthrosis and reduce joint pain. However, the effectiveness of chondroprotectors is still the subject of discussions.
- Injections of corticosteroids: Corticosteroids (for example, Diprospan, Kenalog) are strong anti -inflammatory drugs that can be administered directly into the joint to quickly reduce pain and inflammation. However, corticosteroid injections are not recommended often, since they can have a negative effect on cartilage.
- Physiotherapy: Physiotherapeutic procedures can help reduce pain, inflammation and improve joint mobility.
- Ultrasound therapy: Reduces pain and inflammation.
- Electrophoreses: Introduction of drugs through the skin using electric current.
- Magnetotherapy: Improves blood circulation and reduces inflammation.
- Medical physical education (exercise therapy): Exercises to strengthen the muscles of the brush and improve joint mobility.
- Ortez and rims: Orthes and bandages can help stabilize the joints of the fingers and reduce pain during movement.
- Life change change:
- Reducing the load on the joints: Avoid repeating movements and excessive loads on the fingers.
- Moster correction: Poor posture can lead to overstrain of the muscles and joints of the hands.
- Balanced nutrition: Proper nutrition, rich in vitamins and minerals, is necessary to maintain joint health.
- Weight control: Excessive weight creates an additional load on the joints.
B. Surgical treatment:
Surgical treatment may be necessary in cases where conservative treatment is ineffective or in the presence of serious damage to the joints.
- Arthroscopy: A minimally invasive surgical procedure in which an arthroscope (thin optical tool) and surgical instruments are introduced through small incisions into the joint. Arthroscopy can be used to remove damaged cartilage, bone growths, as well as to restore ligaments.
- Artrodez: The surgical procedure in which the joint is fixed in a certain position. Arthrodesis can be performed to reduce pain and stabilize the joint with severe osteoarthritis or joint instability.
- Joint endoprosthetics: Replacing the damaged joint with artificial prosthesis. Endoprosthetics of the joints of the fingers is a relatively rare procedure that can be performed with severe osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis.
- Operations in tenders and tenosin: Turn on the dissection of the tendon vagina to free up the tendon (for example, with a clicking finger or de Kerven’s disease).
- Reconstructive intercourse operations: Can be made with the instability of the joint caused by damage to the ligaments.
V. Prevention of crunch in the joints of the fingers
Preventive measures can help reduce the risk of crunch in the joints of the fingers and slow down the progression of joint diseases.
A. General recommendations:
- Maintaining a healthy weight: Excessive weight creates an additional load on the joints, which can lead to their damage.
- Regular physical exercises: Moderate physical exercises, such as swimming, walking or riding a bicycle, help strengthen the muscles that support joints and improve their mobility.
- Proper nutrition: A balanced diet, rich in vitamins and minerals, is necessary to maintain joint health.
- The use of products rich in calcium and vitamin D: Calcium and vitamin D are necessary for bone health.
- Eating products containing omega-3 fatty acids: Omega-3 fatty acids have an anti-inflammatory effect and can help reduce joint pain.
- Limiting the use of products that cause inflammation: Such products include red meat, sugar, treated foods and alcohol.
- Avoiding overloads and injuries: Avoid repeating movements and excessive loads on the fingers. When performing work associated with repeating movements, take regular breaks and use ergonomic tools.
- Early seeking a doctor: If pain, edema, restrictions on mobility or other symptoms appear that indicate problems with the joints, you must consult a doctor for timely diagnosis and treatment.
B. Special recommendations for people engaged in activities related to the risk of developing joint diseases:
- Musicians:
- Warm up your hands before the game.
- Take regular breaks during the game.
- Use the correct game technique.
- Take the stretching of the muscles of the hand and forearm.
- Office workers:
- Use an ergonomic keyboard and mouse.
- Set up the height of the stool and the table so that your hands are in the right position.
- Take regular breaks during work.
- Perform exercises to relieve tension from the muscles of the hand and forearm.
- Athletes:
- Warm up your muscles before training.
- Use the correct technique for performing exercises.
- Wear protective equipment.
- Do not overload the joints.
- If you appear, stop training and consult a doctor.
VI. Folk remedies for the treatment of crunch in the joints of the fingers
It should be noted that folk remedies cannot replace qualified medical care, but can be used as an addition to the main treatment. Before using folk remedies, you need to consult a doctor.
- Compresses:
- Compress with cabbage sheet: It is believed that the cabbage sheet has an anti -inflammatory effect. To prepare the compress, it is necessary to beat off the cabbage sheet slightly, attach it to the sore joint and fix it with a bandage.
- Compress with honey and salt: Mix honey and salt in equal proportions, apply the mixture on gauze and apply to the sore joint.
- Compress with potatoes: Grate raw potatoes on a grater, attach to the sore joint and fix with a bandage.
- Baths:
- Bath with sea salt: Dissolve sea salt in warm water and lower your hands into it for 15-20 minutes.
- Bath with a decoction of chamomile: Brew the chamomile with boiling water, let it brew, strain and add to warm water. Get your hands into the bath for 15-20 minutes.
- Tinctures and decoctions:
- Tincture of the Saber Square: It is believed that the swamp saber has an anti -inflammatory and analgesic effect. For the preparation of tincture, it is necessary to pour the dry curse with vodka and let it brew in a dark place for several weeks. Take 1 tablespoon 3 times a day.
- Laurel Language: Pour the bay leaf with boiling water, let it brew, strain and take 1/2 cup 2 times a day.
- Massage: A light fingers massage can help improve blood circulation and reduce pain.
VII. Questions and answers about crunch in the joints of the fingers
- Is it dangerous to crunch with your fingers? In most cases, crunch in the joints of the fingers is not dangerous and does not lead to the development of arthritis. However, if the crunch is accompanied by pain, edema or other symptoms, you must consult a doctor.
- Why do my fingers crunch, although I do not do hard physical work? A crunch in the joints of the fingers can occur for various reasons, including due to physiological factors (cavitation), age-related changes, as well as due to diseases of the joints.
- What exercises can be done to strengthen the joints of the fingers? There are many exercises to strengthen the muscles of the hand and improve the mobility of the joints of the fingers. These include compression and unclenching of a fist, flexion and extension of the fingers, rotation with a brush, as well as the use of an expander.
- Is it possible to cure a crunch in the joints of the fingers with folk remedies? Folk remedies can help reduce pain and inflammation, but cannot cure the disease that caused a crunch. Therefore, it is necessary to consult a doctor to establish a diagnosis and prescribe the appropriate treatment.
- Which doctor should you contact with a crunch in the joints of the fingers? With a crunch in the joints of the fingers, you should contact the therapist, rheumatologist or orthopedic trauma.
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