Knuckles

Knuckles is a term used in anatomy to refer to the joints of the fingers, which are formed by the metacarpal bones and the proximal phalanges. The term is often used to refer specifically to the dorsal aspect of these joints, which become prominent when the fingers are flexed.

Anatomy

The knuckles are formed by the articulation of the metacarpal bones and the proximal phalanges. The metacarpal bones are the five long bones in the hand, while the proximal phalanges are the bones at the base of the fingers. The joint between these two sets of bones is a type of joint known as a condyloid joint, which allows for movement in two planes.

Function

The knuckles play a crucial role in the hand's ability to grip and manipulate objects. They allow for the fingers to bend and straighten, which is essential for many tasks such as writing, typing, and holding objects. The knuckles also play a role in the hand's ability to make a fist, which can be used for tasks such as punching or gripping objects tightly.

Health and medical issues

There are several health and medical issues that can affect the knuckles. These include arthritis, which can cause pain and stiffness in the joints, and bursitis, which is inflammation of the bursa, a small fluid-filled sac that cushions the joint. Other conditions that can affect the knuckles include gout, which is a type of arthritis caused by excess uric acid in the blood, and injury to the hand, which can result in fractures or dislocations of the knuckles.

See also

• Hand
• Finger
• Joint
• Arthritis
• Bursitis

Knuckles Resources
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