The arrector pili muscle (APM), which is connected to the hair follicles and contracts to make the hair stand up, is the only muscle in our fingers, according to Britannica. As a result, have you ever questioned how your fingers are able to move? Incredible, isn’t it? Having informed you that the little bumps on your tongue are not taste buds, today’s topic will be how to interpret finger movement. We talked to experts in order to better comprehend the situation. Check out what they said:
What causes our fingers to move?
“Tendons in the hand are made of forearm muscles. These muscles start the movements, and the tendons in the hand then send those actions to the fingers. Simply put, the tendon unit helps the fingers move, according to Dr. Amith Reddy P, Senior Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon at Yashoda Hospitals in Hyderabad.
Dr. Sathya Vamsi Krishna, Consultant – Hand, Upper-limb and Microvascular Surgery, Fortis Hospital, Bannerghatta Road, Bangalore, explained that the extrinsic muscles originate from the elbow and forearm and connect to the fingers as tendons, adding that there are two types of muscles for the hand: extrinsic and intrinsic. The mass action is aided by these muscles. In contrast, the intrinsic muscles start in the hand and insert into the fingers, offering intrinsic support for coordination and little actions like playing the keyboard, he said to indianexpress.com.
Dr. Manish Sontakke, Consultant – Orthopaedics, Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital Navi Mumbai, further emphasised the function of tendons in finger movement when he remarked, “While the fingers themselves do not have muscles, the muscles responsible for finger movement are actually located in the forearm. Therefore, we must think about the function of tendons in order to comprehend how fingers move in the absence of muscles.
Describe tendons.
Tendons, which connect muscles to bones, are strong, fibrous structures. They provide movement by acting as a link between the bones and the muscles. According to Dr. Reddy P., a tendon is a fibrous connective tissue that connects muscle to bone and aids in joint mobility.
Tendons formed from forearm muscles are found in the hand. These muscles start the motions, which are then sent to the tendons in the hand and assist us in moving our fingers. (Freepik)
Can tendons get hurt?
Yes, tendons can suffer harm. Injury to the tendon may result from trauma, overuse, or specific medical disorders. “Tendonitis (tendon inflammation), tendon tears or ruptures (tendon partial or total tears), and tendinosis (tendon degeneration without considerable inflammation) are some frequent tendon ailments. Repetitive strain injuries, for example, can cause tendon injury as well, according to Dr. Krishna.
How might tendons be fixed?
The severity and location of the damage determine the best course of treatment for tendon injuries. “RICE (rest, ice, compression, and elevation) and the use of anti-inflammatory drugs may help minor tendon injuries heal. To regain strength and flexibility, physical therapy exercises are frequently advised, according to Dr. Krishna, who also noted that in situations of significant tendon damage, surgical intervention may be necessary. In tendon repair surgery, the torn ends of the tendon are repaired or a damaged section is replaced with a tendon from another area of the body. To regain full function and movement following surgery, physical therapy rehabilitation is essential, he continued.
In addition to tendon injuries, diabetes, inflammation, infection, and joint diseases can impair hand function by limiting movement, inflicting discomfort, and producing numbness and tingling.
How can you maintain the flexibility of your finger?
To keep your fingers and hands functioning, it’s crucial to take care of them. Injury prevention measures include avoiding overstretching, exercising correctly, and when required, using protective gear. Here are a few suggestions from Dr. Sontakke. As follows:
Stretch after exercise: Stretching your muscles when they’re more pliable after exercise, and never to the point of pain, can help prevent tendon injury.
Warm up before you exercise: Doing some light aerobic activities or running in place before more intense exercise increases blood flow rates and loosens up tendons.
Wear proper athletic shoes: Making sure your shoes fit well and are designed for the sport you’re playing can help keep your body in alignment.
Work on rest days: Scheduling regular days off can lessen the chances of overstressing your tendons.
“If you experience persistent pain, swelling, or difficulty in moving your fingers, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment,” he concludes.
source from: msn.com
