Thumb. What the metacarpophalangeal and metatarsophalangeal joints consist of: we study the anatomy of 1 phalanx of the finger

The interpretation of the thumb in palmistry plays an important role. I met with Indian palmists who made most of their predictions based on the analysis of the thumb, and this is not accidental. The thumb can tell a lot about a person's character. For example, how he makes decisions and how he implements them.

Man is the only creature in nature endowed with an opposing finger.

Chimpanzees follow right behind humans, but their fingers are very primitive compared to ours. A unique feature of our fingers is the radial nerve, which is made up of the same nerve fibers as the central part of our brain. The same nerve fibers run through the human spine. The radial nerve gives us a unique ability for analytical thinking, which distinguishes a person from all other living beings on the planet.

THUMB LENGTH

The larger the finger, the more significant success a person can achieve.

It is known that Napoleon's thumbs were extremely large, and this is not surprising. There is one useful and fascinating exercise: watching the hands of people speaking on television. You will probably notice that many actors play roles that are completely uncharacteristic of them in real life. An example of this is an actor with a small thumb, playing the role of a financial bigwig. In India, it is believed that the size of the thumb is directly related to the level of success that a person can achieve. This interpretation seems too fatalistic to me, and yet there is no doubt that it is people with large thumbs who more often than others manage to take a leading position in the modern world. The fact is that they are more purposeful, ambitious and persistent than others. Charlotte Wolfe has done research on the thumbs of highly accomplished people and found that almost everyone has a thumb length that is within the average range. It's just that people with long thumbs are much more persistent and persistent in achieving their goals.

If you happen to meet a person with a very long thumb (Fig. 84), know that he is able to take on the role of leader in any situation. This person is smart, determined and has great willpower.

People with short thumbs (Fig. 85) tend to lack willpower. They can be extremely stubborn, often unreasonably and for no particular reason.

People whose thumbs reach medium length (reach at least the middle of the lower phalanx of the index finger, (Fig. 86), are fair, independent and can stand up for themselves. They think sensibly and have considerable willpower.

When the thumb, when viewed from the side of the nail, looks wide (Fig. 87), this indicates that a person is capable of anything to achieve his goal.

A person whose thumb looks fleshy (Fig. 88) is sharp and direct and at times may appear tactless and even rude. He is stubborn and strives with all his might to always do everything in his own way. He will not stand a price when it comes to his own independence.

PHALANGS OF THE THUMB

Each finger on the human hand is divided into three parts, which are called phalanges (Fig. 89), although it seems that the thumb has only two phalanges. The hill of Venus is the fleshy part of the hand at the base of the thumb, girded with the line of life, and is its third phalanx.

Ideally, the length of the first and second phalanges of the thumb should be the same (Fig. 90). The first phalanx, on which the nail grows, symbolizes the will of a person, and the second - his logic. When both phalanges reach the same length, this indicates a person who equally possesses both logic and willpower. He is able to give birth to a good idea and has the necessary will and energy to implement it.

If the first phalanx is longer than the second (Fig. 91), this indicates the predominance of willpower over logic. Such a person will make a lot of mistakes, but none of them, no matter how serious it may be, will not be able to make him abandon the intended goal.

Even after the most crushing blow, he will find the strength to rise and continue moving forward. Such a combination of phalanges indicates an exceptionally purposeful and stubborn person. He is willing to work hard and long for his goal. Tends to overwhelm others and dominate them.

In most people, the second phalanx is longer than the first (Fig. 92). This indicates the predominance of logic over willpower. A person with such a combination is full of ideas, but is not able to find the strength to realize at least one of them. He thinks and thinks and thinks, and then he thinks some more. He has everything but dedication and motivation. This explains why most of us achieve only a fraction of what we are capable of. Too much logic, too little will.

THUMB ANGLE

Most often, the thumb is located at an angle of 45 ° with respect to the hand (Fig. 93). This indicates the ability and desire of a person to maintain traditional social principles and his moderate conservatism. In general terms, the larger this angle, the more generous the person.

Accordingly, this angle is sometimes called the “generosity angle” (Fig. 94).

If the value of this angle is less than 45 ° (Fig. 95), this indicates a person's selfishness. Most likely, he is cruel, narrow-minded and proud. His view of the world around him is very narrow.

If this angle exceeds 45 °, this indicates a person who is energetic, open, with the ability to charm and influence others.

He loves adventure and always strives to learn something new and unusual. If, in a relaxed state, the thumb is kept at a distance from others, this indicates a calm, open, sociable and carefree person, the angle of practicality

The angle of practicality is the angle that forms on the outside of the thumb, where it joins the palm (Fig. 96). You will soon find that on most hands this angle is missing, while in some people a bulge is noticeable in this place. The greater this bulge, the more practical the person. We call such people jacks of all trades, they are distinguished by skill and dexterity and love activities that allow them to actively use their hands. This angle is also known as the angle of time because it gives a person a particularly keen sense of time. Such people are always punctual, they know how to catch the right moment and brilliantly pause.

ANGLE OF HEIGHT

The angle of pitch, or the angle of sound, is at the very base of the palm, under the thumb, where it joins the wrist (Fig. 97). The height angle indicates a person who feels the rhythm and has an ear for music.

Gifted musicians, dancers and singers in most cases have pronounced angles of height and practicality. The practicality angle gives them a sense of timing and tempo, while the pitch angle gives them an ear for music and a sense of rhythm.

Look closely at photographs of the world's leading musicians and performers of all genres, from classical to popular music, and you will notice how obvious these angles are on their hands. The next time you have a picture of Elvis Presley in front of you, pay attention to his hands - they have a very pronounced angle of practicality and an angle of height.

THUMB POSITION

The thumbs can be located at different heights in relation to the palms, so they are divided into high-set and low-set.

A high-set (Fig. 98) thumb is considered if it starts high above the wrist. People with such fingers are distinguished by originality, openness and optimism. They are typical extroverts.

People with low-set thumbs (Fig. 99), on the contrary, are reserved and cautious. In most cases, the landing of the thumb fluctuates somewhere between high and low.

TIP OF THE THUMB

Few modern palmists use D'Arpentigny's hand classification system, but the terms he developed are still actively used in the analysis of the fingertips, including the thumb.

If the tip of the thumb is square (Fig. 100), this indicates a person who is practical, simple, down to earth and fair. Such people always try to play fair.

If the tip has a scapular shape (Fig. 101), this indicates a businesslike and active person.

If the tip has a conical shape (Fig. 102), this indicates a sensitive and refined person.

Often the conical tip is combined with a second phalanx tapering and concave on both sides (Fig. 103). This testifies to the diplomacy and tact of a person. When he says "no", he does it in such a polite, benevolent and intelligent way that it is impossible to be offended by him.

The pointed tip of the thumb (Fig. 104) indicates a subtle and insightful person who will be able to present even the worst news gently and calmly.

The wide tip (Fig. 105) indicates a person who is cautious, thorough, who has his own convictions.

If the tip is wide and flat, and the upper phalanx resembles a bump, such a finger is called a killer finger (Fig. 106). This finger shape is usually hereditary. People with such fingers can be very patient, but sometimes they explode over trifles. Undoubtedly, it is thanks to this feature that the “killer finger” got its name.

FINGER MOBILITY

The thumbs are divided into inflexible and mobile. If the finger freely bends back in the joint area, it is considered mobile (Fig. 107). A person with movable thumbs is open, positive, optimistic. He does not tolerate pressure and in conflict situations prefers to retreat without entering into an argument and without making a scandal.

If the thumb is inactive and does not bend back at the joint, it is called inflexible. A person with this type of thumbs is reliable, constant, stubborn, persistent and purposeful. He never backs down, even when under very strong pressure.

There was a period in my life when I worked as a salesman, and the knowledge of palmistry then helped me a lot. If there was a customer in front of me with movable thumbs, I could apply a little pressure on him, and, yielding to the pressure, he would make a purchase.

If I had to deal with a person who had inflexible thumbs, I did not even try to put pressure on him. If I tried to click on such a client, all my attempts would end in failure. Moreover, with my own hands I would erect obstacles to future success.

Try not to use your hands a bit. Difficult? Not difficult, but almost impossible! The main function of the hands, especially small, subtle movements, is provided by the fingers. The absence of such a small organ compared to the size of the entire body even imposes restrictions on the performance of certain types of work. So, the absence of a thumb or part of it may be a contraindication to driving.

Description

Fingers end our limbs. A person has normally 5 fingers on his hand: a separate, opposed to the rest, thumb and index, middle, ring and little fingers arranged in a row.

A person received such a separate arrangement of the thumb in the course of evolution. Scientists believe that it was the opposable finger and the well-developed grasping reflex associated with it that led to a global evolutionary leap. In humans, the thumb is located in a similar way only on the hands (unlike primates). In addition, only a person can connect the thumb with the ring and little fingers and has the ability to both a strong grip and small movements.

Functions

Thanks to the variety of movements in which the fingers of the hand participate, we can:

• pick up and hold objects of various sizes, shapes and weights;
• perform small precise manipulations;
• write;
• gesticulate (the inability to speak led to the intensive development of sign language).

On the skin of the fingertips there are folds, stripes that form a unique pattern. This ability is actively used to identify a person by law enforcement or the security system of employers.

Structure

1. The basis of the fingers is the bone skeleton. The fingers consist of phalanges: the smallest, nail or distal, middle phalanx and proximal phalanx (have all fingers except the thumb). The phalanges of the fingers are small tubular bones - hollow inside. Each phalanx has a head and a base. The middle thinnest part of the bone is called the body of the phalanx. The nail phalanx is the smallest and ends with a distal phalangeal tubercle.
2. The connection of the head and base of adjacent phalangeal bones forms the interphalangeal joints - distal (located farther from the body) and proximal (located closer to the body). The thumb has one interphalangeal joint. Interphalangeal joints are typical axial joints. Movements in them occur in the same plane - flexion and extension.
3. The joints of the fingers are secured by palmar and collateral ligaments that run from the heads of the phalangeal bones to the base of other bones or to the palmar surface of an adjacent bone.
4. The muscular apparatus of the fingers is just a part of the muscles of the hand. The fingers themselves have practically no muscles. The tendons of the muscles of the hand, which are responsible for the mobility of the fingers, are attached to the phalanges of the fingers. The lateral group of muscles of the palmar surface of the hand provides the movements of the thumb - its flexion, abduction, adduction, opposition. The medial group is responsible for the movements of the little finger. The movements of 2-4 fingers are provided by the contraction of the muscles of the middle group. The tendons of the flexor muscles are attached to the proximal phalanges of the fingers. Extension of the fingers is provided by the extensor muscles of the fingers located on the back of the hand. Their long tendons are attached to the distal and middle phalanges of the fingers.
5. The tendons of the muscles of the hand are in a kind of synovial cases, which extend from the hand to the fingers and reach the distal phalanges.
6. The fingers are supplied with blood from the radial and ulnar arteries, which form arterial arches and multiple anastomoses on the hand. The arteries that feed the tissues of the finger are located along the lateral surfaces of the phalanges, along with the nerves. The venous network of the hand originates from the fingertips.
7. The space between the internal structures of the finger is filled with fatty tissue. Outside, the fingers, like most of our body, are covered with skin. On the back surface of the distal phalanges of the fingers in the nail bed is a nail.

Finger injury

When performing various types of work, injury to the fingers is the most common. This is due to the fact that it is with the help of fingers that we do the bulk of the work. Conventionally, finger injuries can be divided into several groups:

• soft tissue injury - cut, bruise, compression,
• injury to a bone or joint - fracture, dislocation, sprain,
• thermal injuries - frostbite, burns,
• traumatic amputations,
• damage to nerves and tendons.

Symptoms depend on the type of injury, but all injuries are characterized by common signs - pain of varying intensity, tissue swelling, hemorrhage or bleeding with an open injury, impaired movement of the injured finger.

Little finger

The smallest, medially located finger. Carries the most minimal functional load. The meaning of the word little finger in Russian is the younger brother, the younger son.

ring finger

It is located between the little finger and the middle finger - it is practically not used independently, which is explained by the commonality of the tendons of the adjacent fingers. It carries an independent load when playing keyboard instruments or typing. There was a belief that a vein went straight to the heart from this finger, which explains the tradition of wearing wedding rings on this finger.

Middle finger

Its name speaks for itself - it is located in the middle of the finger row. More mobile compared to the ring finger, the longest finger of the hand. In sign language, the middle finger is used for offensive motion.

Forefinger

One of the most functional fingers of the hand. This finger is able to move independently of the others. It is with this finger that we point most often.

Thumb

The thickest, free-standing finger. It has only 2 phalanges, it is opposed to the rest, which provides a perfect grasping ability of the hand. The thumb is actively used in gesture communication. The width of the thumb was formerly used as a unit of measurement, equal to 1 centimeter, and the inch was originally defined as the length of the nail phalanx of the thumb.

The hand, together with the fingers, ensures the functional and labor activity of a person. Hands with the help of fine motor skills and finger movements are involved in the knowledge of the world around us and maintaining the relationship with it. The metacarpophalangeal joint (MPJ) connects the phalanges of each of the fingers to the fixed part of the hand. A slightly different role is played by the metatarsophalangeal joints of the legs. To better understand the structure of the joints, you need to delve into the knowledge of anatomy.

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Anatomical features of the PFS

The anatomical structure of the hand includes small bones connected by joints. The hand itself is divided into three zones: the wrist, metacarpal part and phalanges of the fingers.

The wrist consists of 8 bones arranged in two rows. The three bones of the first row, which have fixed joints, and the pisiform bone adjoining them, form a common surface and are connected to the radius. The second row contains four bones associated with the metacarpus. This part is similar to a boat, with a hollow in the palm. The interosseous space contains nerves, blood vessels, together with connective tissue and articular cartilage. The mobility of the bones one relative to the other is limited.

The articular part that connects the radius to the wrist provides rotation and movement. A metacarpal part is formed with 5 bones of a tubular structure. In the proximal section, they are attached to the wrist through immovable joints. The opposite side, called the distal, is attached to the proximal phalanges by movable joints. Due to the spherical metacarpophalangeal joints, the fingers are flexed and extended, rotated by them.

The joint of the thumb is saddle-shaped, which allows it only to bend and unbend. In the structure of the fingers, in addition to the large one, there are three phalanges: the main (proximal), middle and distal (nail). They are connected by block-shaped interphalangeal movable joints, which allow performing flexion and extensor movement. The thumb is biphalangeal, the middle phalanx is missing.

All carpal joints with strong articular capsules. One capsule is able to connect 2-3 joints. The ligamentous structure serves to support the osteoarticular skeleton.

Role and functions in the body

The PPS of the hands serve as a separator between the fingers and the hand. They protrude from the outside when the hand is bent into a fist. The joint is the base of each of the 5 fingers and provides functional mobility.

The four fingers of the hand act mostly synchronously with the isolated function of the first finger. The second or index finger, due to greater dexterity and independence of movement, captures an object earlier. The middle finger differs from the rest in length and massiveness. Necessary for long-term retention of the grip. The ring finger is endowed with a developed muscular sense and touch, and the little finger completes the grip and ensures the stability of the hand when moving.

The design of the joint provides mobility around the frontal and sagittal axis. Flexion and extension, movements of abduction and adduction, circular movements occur around these axes. Flexion and extension is performed at 90-100 degrees, and adduction and abduction is possible at 45-50 degrees only with extended fingers.

Detailed structure

The metacarpophalangeal joints are the articulations of the heads of the metacarpal bones and the cavities of the bases of the proximal phalanges of the fingers. The joints are saddle-shaped or condylar. The metacarpal head is biconvex, and the base itself is biconcave and much smaller in area.

High mobility is explained by a significant difference in size between the articular heads and fossae. They can actively move towards the palm, bend and unbend with a high amplitude. The function of sweeping lateral movements, that is, abduction and return, is less pronounced. The muscular-tendon apparatus allows you to convert them into rotational movements. The second finger is endowed with the greatest ability for lateral displacement and is called the index finger.

If the articular surfaces were similar, the possibility of displacement would be significantly reduced, which significantly limited the motor capabilities of the hand.

Bundles

The interphalangeal joints and PPS are characterized by a loose and thin capsule. It is fixed by the solid ligament of the palm and the transverse-metacarpal ligaments. On the sides there are collateral ligaments that strengthen the metacarpophalangeal joints and prevent the lateral shift of the finger at the time of flexion. Collateral ligaments originate in the fossa of the ulnar and radial part of the articular surface of the metacarpal bones and the opposite part. Associated with the lateral and palmar portion of the proximal phalanx.

Two ligaments of the flexor retinaculum and extensor retinaculum on the back of the hand form fibrous sheaths for the muscles. Fibrous sheaths and synovial spaces protect the tendons from injury.
Additional ligaments are located in the palmar part of the capsule and are called palmar. The fibers of the ligament are woven with the transverse-metacarpal ligament between the tips of the II-V bones, keep the tips of the metacarpal bones from moving in different directions.

The intertendinous tissues help to hold the extensor muscle. They connect the tendons of pairs of fingers: index and middle, middle and ring fingers, little finger and ring finger. Located close to the PFC. The main tendon near the extensor muscle is divided into superficial, located in the center and deep, located on the sides.

Muscular structure

The articular sheath is covered by the tendon of the flexor muscle on the back side and the tendons of the vermiform and interosseous muscles. The fibers of these muscles support the flexor muscle by being located above its tendons. The sagittal bundles are called retainer fibers. They are divided into radial or medial, and ulnar or lateral.

The tissues of the bundles are located in a thin layer on the surface and denser in depth. The superficial layer braids the flexor tendons from above and connects to the sagittal bundle from the opposite side. Deeper under the tendon, a cavity is formed in the form of a channel that stabilizes and supports the tendon in one place.

The muscles that allow you to bend and unbend your fingers run along the back of the forearm. Their tendon fibers stretched across the entire hand to the tips of the PPS. They are fixed to the middle and tops of the fingers. The extreme fingers, little finger and index finger, have additional extensor muscles. The tendons of these muscles are located at the upper points of the corresponding PPS along with the common digital extensor and are balanced by similar structures.

Features of the structure of the thumb

The mobility of the joints of the hand allows you to take and hold various objects. The fulfillment of this task is ensured by the mobility of the thumb, opposed to the rest.

The PFS of the thumb, while externally similar to the rest, has differences in structure. First of all, the block joint is different. It is saddle-shaped and its articular head is much larger, the tubercles on the palmar side are more developed. Articular capsule, on the surface facing the palm, with two sesamoid bones: lateral and medial. The part facing the cavity covers the hyaline cartilage, and the tendon of the long flexor passes between the bones.

The shape of the articular surfaces provides mobility of the finger in two planes: extension and flexion, abduction and reverse movement. The effectiveness of the grip of the palm is ensured by the special structure of the ligaments and tendons on the hand, in which the flexion of the index finger and little finger is directed towards the thumb.

The distant part of the lower limb is the foot, which is necessary to keep the body in an upright position. Its structure is a complex combination of groups of small bones that form a strong arch to support the body when moving and standing. This design and a large number of joints create a flexible and durable design. The lower arch of the foot in contact with the ground is called the sole, the opposite part is called the back side.

What is the skeleton of the foot made of?

The skeleton of the human foot includes 26 bones, divided into three parts: the tarsus, the metatarsus, and the phalanxes of the fingers directly.

1. There are 7 bones in the part of the tarsus. These are the cuboid, scaphoid, calcaneus, talus, sphenoid medial and intermediate bones.
2. The structure of the metatarsus includes five short tubular bones. They connect the tarsus with the proximal phalanges of the fingers.
3. Short bones of a tubular structure form the phalanges of the fingers. According to their location, they are called proximal, intermediate, and distal.

The interphalangeal joints of the joints of the toes are called the metatarsophalangeal, proximal, and distal joints. The structure of the first toe is similar to the big toe. It has only two phalanges, while the other fingers have three. The mobility of the joints of the foot is similar to the corresponding carpal, but with limitations. The fingers are slightly abducted to the sides and back, have a developed dorsal and slightly less developed plantar flexion. They have more extension than flexion.

Metatarsophalangeal joints

The metatarsophalangeal ball joint is located at the ligament of the metatarsal heads with the lower part of the proximal phalanges. On the back side, the joints of the toes are closed by extensors, and along the sole by tendon channels. On both sides, the joints are reinforced with lateral ligaments. From the side of the sole - intercapitate ligaments and tendons.

The joint of the first finger on the inside is reinforced by the tendon of the abductor muscle. From the outside, it adjoins the fiber of the interdigital space. In the plantar part, the capsule includes the inner and outer sesamoid ossicles.

The metatarsophalangeal joint of the second finger from the side of the sole strengthens the fibers of the fibrous canal of the flexor muscles. The tendon fibers of the intercapitular ligament and the adductor muscle are woven into the capsule. On the inside, it is supported by a ligament of the tendons of the first dorsal muscle, and under the ligament by the tendons of the worm-like muscle.

The capsule from the outside is strengthened by the tendons of the dorsal interosseous muscle. On both sides of the capsule is fiber interdigital spaces. The heads of all metatarsal bones are braided with a deep transverse ligament. The angle of flexion of the metatarsophalangeal joints is small, which is associated with a high density of the articular bag.

Video "Joint Deformity"

Why does the deformation of the joints occur and how it looks, as well as how to carry out the treatment, see the video.

The interpretation of the thumb in palmistry plays an important role. I met with Indian palmists who made most of their predictions based on the analysis of the thumb, and this is not accidental. The thumb can tell a lot about a person's character. For example, how he makes decisions and how he implements them.

Man is the only creature in nature endowed with an opposing finger. Chimpanzees follow right behind humans, but their fingers are very primitive compared to ours. A unique feature of our fingers is the radial nerve, which is made up of the same nerve fibers as the central part of our brain.

The same nerve fibers run through the human spine. The radial nerve gives us a unique ability for analytical thinking, which distinguishes a person from all other living beings on the planet.

THUMB LENGTH

The larger the finger, the more significant success a person can achieve. It is known that Napoleon's thumbs were extremely large, and this is not surprising. There is one useful and fascinating exercise: watching the hands of people speaking on television.

You will probably notice that many actors play roles that are completely out of character for them in real life. An example of this is an actor with a small thumb, playing the role of a financial bigwig. In India, it is believed that the size of the thumb is directly related to the level of success that a person can achieve.

This interpretation seems too fatalistic to me, and yet there is no doubt that it is people with large thumbs who more often than others manage to take a leading position in the modern world. The fact is that they are more purposeful, ambitious and persistent than others.

Charlotte Wolfe has done research on the thumbs of highly accomplished people and found that almost everyone has a thumb length that is within the average range. It's just that people with long thumbs are much more persistent and persistent in achieving their goals.

long thumb

If you happen to meet a person with a very long thumb, know that he is able to take on the role of leader in any situation. This person is smart, determined and has great willpower.

short thumb

People with short thumbs tend to lack willpower. They can be extremely stubborn, often unreasonably and for no particular reason.

Thumb medium length

People whose thumbs reach medium length (reach at least the middle of the lower phalanx of the index finger) are fair, independent and can stand up for themselves. They are sensible and have considerable willpower.

When the thumb, when viewed from the side of the nail, looks wide, this indicates that a person is capable of anything to achieve his goal.

A person whose thumb looks beefy is blunt and direct, and at times can appear tactless and even rude. He is stubborn and strives with all his might to always do everything in his own way. He will not stand a price when it comes to his own independence.

PHALANGS OF THE THUMB

Each finger on the human hand is divided into three parts called phalanges, although it seems that the thumb has only two phalanges. The hill of Venus is the fleshy part of the hand at the base of the thumb, girded with the line of life, and is its third phalanx.

Most often, the thumb is located at an angle of 45 ° in relation to the hand. This indicates the ability and desire of a person to maintain traditional social principles and his moderate conservatism. In general terms, the larger this angle, the more generous the person.

Generosity Corner

Angle greater than 45°

Accordingly, this angle is sometimes referred to as the "bounty angle".

If this angle exceeds 45 °, this indicates a person who is energetic, open, with the ability to charm and influence others.

He loves adventure and always strives to learn something new and unusual. If, in a relaxed state, the thumb is kept at a distance from others, this indicates a calm, open, sociable and carefree person.

If the value of this angle is less than 45 °, this indicates a person's selfishness. Most likely, he is cruel, narrow-minded and proud. His view of the world around him is very narrow.

practicality angle

The practicality angle is the angle that forms on the outside of the thumb where it meets the palm. You will soon find that on most hands this angle is missing, while in some people a bulge is noticeable in this place. The greater this bulge, the more practical the person.

We call such people jacks of all trades, they are distinguished by skill and dexterity and love activities that allow them to actively use their hands. This angle is also known as the angle of time because it gives a person a particularly keen sense of time. Such people are always punctual, they know how to catch the right moment and brilliantly pause.

Height angle (angle of sound)

The angle of pitch, or the angle of sound, is at the very base of the palm, under the thumb, where it joins the wrist. The height angle indicates a person who feels the rhythm and has an ear for music.

Gifted musicians, dancers and singers in most cases have pronounced angles of height and practicality. The practicality angle gives them a sense of timing and tempo, while the pitch angle gives them an ear for music and a sense of rhythm.

Look closely at photographs of the world's leading musicians and performers of all genres, from classical to popular music, and you will notice how obvious these angles are on their hands. The next time you have a picture of Elvis Presley in front of you, pay attention to his hands - they have a very pronounced angle of practicality and an angle of height.

THUMB POSITION

High set thumb

The thumbs can be located at different heights in relation to the palms, so they are divided into high-set and low-set.

A high-set thumb is considered if it starts high above the wrist. People with such fingers are distinguished by originality, openness and optimism. They are typical extroverts.

Low set thumb

People with low-set thumbs, on the other hand, are reserved and cautious. In most cases, the landing of the thumb fluctuates somewhere between high and low.

TIP OF THE THUMB

Few modern palmists use D'Arpentigny's hand classification system, but the terms he developed are still actively used in the analysis of the fingertips, including the thumb.

If the tip of the thumb is square in shape, it indicates a person who is practical, simple, down to earth and fair. Such people always try to play fair.

If the tip has a scapular shape, this indicates a business and active person.

If the tip has a conical shape, this indicates a sensitive and refined person.

Often the conical tip is combined with a second phalanx tapering and concave on both sides. This testifies to the diplomacy and tact of a person. When he says "no", he does it in such a polite, benevolent and intelligent way that it is impossible to be offended by him.

The pointed tip of the thumb indicates a person who is subtle and insightful, who will be able to present even the worst news gently and calmly.

The wide tip indicates a person who is cautious, thorough, having his own convictions.

If the tip is wide and flat, and the upper phalanx resembles a bump, such a finger is called a killer finger. This finger shape is usually hereditary. People with such fingers can be very patient, but sometimes they explode over trifles. Undoubtedly, it is thanks to this feature that the “killer finger” got its name.

FINGER MOBILITY

The thumbs are divided into inflexible and mobile. If the finger freely bends back at the joint, it is considered mobile. A person with movable thumbs is open, positive, optimistic. He does not tolerate pressure and in conflict situations prefers to retreat without entering into an argument and without making a scandal.

If the thumb is inactive and does not bend back at the joint, it is called inflexible. A person with this type of thumbs is reliable, constant, stubborn, persistent and purposeful. He never backs down, even when under very strong pressure.

There was a period in my life when I worked as a salesman, and the knowledge of palmistry then helped me a lot. If there was a customer in front of me with movable thumbs, I could apply a little pressure on him, and, yielding to the pressure, he would make a purchase.

If I had to deal with a person who had inflexible thumbs, I did not even try to put pressure on him. If I tried to click on such a client, all my attempts would end in failure. Moreover, with my own hands I would erect obstacles to future success.

INDIAN THUMB INTERPRETATION

I have been indelibly impressed by the Indian system of thumb interpretation ever since a Bombay palmist foretold my fate from it more than thirty years ago.

At that time I myself made a living as a palmist and was amazed that an Indian colleague completely ignored my palm, focusing on the thumb, and based his predictions solely on its analysis. Palmists have repeatedly read my thumbs, and I have always been amazed at how accurate and detailed predictions they made.

Unfortunately, the few books from which one could master the Indian system of thumb interpretation were written in local languages ​​- Tamil, Sanskrit and Pali. Some palmists offered to teach me the basics of this art, but I could not comprehend it to the extent that I could apply it in practice.

A few years ago I had the opportunity to spend a couple of days in New Delhi with my old friend Samir Upadhya. We discussed, among other things, the thumb interpretation system. It was thanks to Samir that I was able to replenish my knowledge in the field of palmistry, and I am very grateful to him for his generosity and kindness.

THUMB TYPE

The palmist begins by feeling and examining the thumb and determining what type it belongs to. This is based on a system identical to the Western one. A finger inflexible and inactive indicates a stubborn and uncompromising person. A finger that bends back with ease indicates that a person is flexible and yields when pressure is applied to him.

The shape of the finger is determined on the basis of the D'Arpentigny system, which is actively used by both Western and Eastern palmists. In India, D'Arpentigny's hand classification system is also in use. True, in the West today only a part of the system related to the classification of thumbs is used.

Dermatoglyphics

Then the palmist analyzes the relief pattern of the skin on the fingertip.

THUMB LINES

Nine lines (rekha) can appear on the thumb. A finger where all nine are present at the same time is extremely rare, but at least two of them can be found on each finger. These are the two lines that divide the phalanges. One of them passes between the phalanges of will and logic, and the second - between the phalanx of logic and the hill of Venus.

HORIZONTAL LINES

The horizontal lines begin on the side of the thumb closest to Jupiter's finger and, ideally, completely encircle it. It is desirable that these lines are as smooth and even as possible.

Phala rekha (wheat line)

Phala Rekha is better known as the wheat line. Sometimes it is also called the rice line. The word "phala" is translated as "fruit" or as "consequence of the result." This term is related to karma. It should be noted that the phrase "karma-phala" is translated as "the result of an act."

Accordingly, a good deed gives a positive result. A bad deed, in turn, gives rise to negative consequences. This line is also sometimes called "pushpa" (flower) because it looks like a flower. The Phala Rekha runs between the phalanxes of logic and will.

Its absence on the finger is extremely rare. The presence of a line indicates that a person will never starve. If it seems that a grain of rice or wheat is hidden inside the line, this indicates that the person will live a happy and fulfilling life.

As a rule, the wheat line consists of two intertwined lines representing a man and a woman. This line in most cases begins as a single line, but soon a second line joins it, which symbolizes a companion or life partner.

Analysis of the wheat line allows you to determine the time when this fateful meeting will happen (or has already happened). Small defects or disturbances on this line are usually associated with problems in personal relationships.

If the beginning of the wheat line is wavy or there are gaps on it, this indicates a difficult childhood.

If the line is wavy in the middle section, this indicates problems in adulthood. And, of course, if the line is wavy at its end, this indicates that a person will have to face difficulties in old age.

mallika rekha

Mallika is a small white flower that looks like a jasmine. Traditionally, it is presented as a gift to the Hindu god Shiva. The Mallika Rekha runs between the Phalanx of Logic and the Mount of Venus. It must be clear and clearly marked. It symbolizes a happy family and home life. Sometimes this line resembles a single, unbreakable chain. In this case, she points to a bold, courageous person with a strong character.

The black dots on this line symbolize financial conflicts between family members.

If this line is noticeably thicker and wider than the wheat line, this indicates that it will not be easy for a person to find an ideal partner, and having met him, it will not be easy to maintain harmonious relationships with him. Breaks on this line indicate that a person will experience many ups and downs in life.

Four more horizontal lines are located on the logical phalanx. If all four lines are present on the finger, they divide the phalanx into five parts. The first three lines (madhura, mandara and mana) are quite rare. The last, fourth, line of the logical phalanx (rati rekha) is almost always found.

madhura rekha

"Madhura" translates as "possessing sweetness." Madhura rekha is the line closest to the wheat line. It should be subtle but distinct. This indicates a person who is compassionate and sociable. You can always find a common language with him.

mandara rekha

Mandara is the name of a sacred mythical mountain. This word is also synonymous with paradise and mirror. Mandara rekha indicates a person's love of travel. Such a person is distinguished by innate tirelessness and endurance, due to which, sooner or later, he begins to experience a craving for travel.

Mana rekha

Mana is an abstract term for the place where our thoughts, dreams, feelings, emotions and desires reside. This is an unfavorable line. Its presence indicates a person's propensity for extramarital affairs and infidelity.

Rati rekha

Rati was the wife of Kamadeva, the Hindu god of love. The word "rati" refers to intimate contact.

Rati rekha must be interpreted in combination with the lines of romantic affection located on the edge of the palm under the finger of Mercury. It shows how happy a person will be in love.

Ideally, this line should be clear, clearly marked and without breaks. The island on the rati rekha indicates that during the specified period of time, the chosen one will be struck by the disease.

If the line is broken in the middle, this indicates that the person will be happy for the first half of his life, after which he will have to face problems and troubles. As a rule, they will be caused by the health condition of the partner.
If the line continues after the break, it indicates that difficulties will be overcome.
If the rati rekha consists of a series of consecutive broken lines, this is a symbol of celibacy.

VERTICAL LINES

Three vertical lines may appear on the thumb. The Vajra Rekha, which bisects the finger, is always the longest of them.

vajra rekha

Vajra is an ancient weapon that looks like a large metal arrowhead. It was this weapon, according to legend, that was used by Indra, the god of rain and lightning. Lightning is considered to be a spark struck by Indra's vajra.

Vajra rekha is a thin line located on the side of the thumb that faces the finger of Jupiter, and directed towards the mallika rekha. Sometimes the vajra rekha begins on the hill of Venus. This line is better known as the diamond line, as people endowed with it can become very rich.

By the way, the word "vajra" is synonymous with the words "diamond" and "steel". However, in order for a person to get rich, it must be clear and clearly expressed. If the kesara rekha is also clearly marked, this indicates that the person will make money without much effort. The wave-like shape of the vajra rekha indicates that a person will earn his capital in speculative ways.

Kesara rekha

The word "kesara" has several meanings. They designate saffron - a common culinary seasoning in the East. Kesara is also called the pistil of the saffron flower. The same word is used for the mane of the Indian lion.

The Kesara Rekha runs parallel to the Vajra Rekha but is on the opposite side of the thumb. As a rule, the kesara rekha is a short line that starts on the hill of Venus and ends on the mallika rekha line.

The presence of this line indicates a gradual increase in family wealth.
If the kesara rekha is thin and hard to see, it indicates that the person will be financially successful for a long period of time and that his wealth will accumulate over many years.

If the kesara rekha is wide and well visible, it means that the person will make money quickly.
If it is deep, clearly marked and reaches the wheat line, this indicates a person born into a wealthy family. Most likely he will be interested in art. It is difficult for people who do not have kesara rekha to achieve financial success.

ripu rekha

The ripu rekha starts on the hill of Venus and goes up the thumb to the wheat line. Sometimes it can end on the phalanx of will.

The word "ripu" is translated as "enemy". Accordingly, this line is regarded as hostile. It is believed that it not only neutralizes the positive effect of any line that it crosses, but also leaves a negative imprint on the corresponding areas of human life.

In addition to determining the type of thumb, analyzing lines and dermatoglyphics, Indian palmists interpret various symbols and signs formed by lines and a relief pattern of the skin.

For example, a fish says that a person will achieve a lot in life. Cancer or scorpio indicate that a person will serve all his life and will not rise above this position.

The number of options is endless, but to discover them, you need to have not only good eyesight, but also a rich imagination. Because this takes us away from serious palmistry, I have decided not to include descriptions of these symbols in this book.

Over time, I realized that knowing the meanings of the nine lines of the thumb is an extremely useful addition to my knowledge in the field of practical palmistry. They allow you to know something that cannot be known in any other way.

I recommend starting to study them only after you begin to feel confident in interpreting the main lines of the hand. As you analyze the thumb lines, feel free to ask questions and take notes.

This direction of palmistry in the West is considered new and little studied, and perhaps it is you who will be able to make valuable and original comments regarding the interpretation of the thumb. But it will require your attention and patience.

The human hand is made up of many small joints. Thanks to this, fingers can perform quite complex movements: write, draw, play musical instruments. The brush is involved in any household activity of a person. Therefore, various joint pathologies in this area greatly reduce the quality of life. Indeed, due to the restriction of mobility, it becomes difficult to perform the simplest actions.

And most often the joints are affected, as this is the most vulnerable and subjected to heavy loads. Due to the structural features, inflammation, metabolic disorders or injuries can occur here. One of the most important and mobile joints of the hand is the metacarpophalangeal joint. It connects the metacarpal bones to the main phalanges of the fingers and provides mobility to the hand. Due to their location and function, these joints are most often subject to various pathologies.

general characteristics

The metacarpophalangeal joints of the hand are spherical joints with a complex structure. They are formed by the surfaces of the heads of the metacarpal bones and the bases of the first phalanges. After the wrist joint, these are the largest and most mobile in the hand. It is they who have the main burden in any work of the hand. The metacarpophalangeal joint of the thumb is slightly different due to its special structure, location and functions. Here it has a saddle shape, so it is not as mobile. But it is he who is responsible for the grasping movements of the hand.

This articulation can be easily seen if the hand is clenched into a fist. At the same time, the metacarpophalangeal joints of the four fingers form semicircular bulges, spaced from each other by about 1 cm. The most noticeable tubercle is in the area of ​​the middle finger. Due to this arrangement, these joints are highly vulnerable and quite often undergo trauma or various pathological processes. In this case, not only the work of the brush is disturbed, but also the general working capacity of a person.

The metacarpophalangeal joints are the most mobile in the hand, they can bend, unbend, move in the lateral plane and even rotate

Movements in the joint

This joint is the most mobile among all the joints of the hand. It has quite complex biomechanics. Fingers in this place can perform the following movements:

• flexion-extension;
• abduction-adduction;
• rotation.

Moreover, the last movements are available only for 4 fingers. The big one has a special structure - only two phalanxes. Therefore, his metacarpophalangeal joint is blocky - he can perform a limited number of movements. It only bends, all other movements are blocked and impossible even in a passive form. This articulation of the thumb repeats the shape and function of all other interphalangeal joints.

The metacarpophalangeal joints of the remaining fingers are more mobile. This is due to their special structure. The base of the phalanx is slightly smaller than the metacarpal head. Their strong connection is provided by a fibrocartilaginous plate. On the one hand, it serves for tight contact of the bones and stabilization of the joint, which is especially noticeable when the finger is extended. But when he starts to move, this plate slides, providing a greater range of motion.

A feature of this joint, due to which the finger can move in different directions, is the elasticity of its capsule and synovial membrane. In addition, the joint capsule has deep pockets in front and behind. They provide gliding of the fibrocartilaginous plate, and it is in these places that the tendons of the muscles that control the work of the fingers are attached.

Greater mobility of these joints is possible due to the presence of two types of ligaments. One is attached to the fibrocartilaginous plate and the metacarpal head. It ensures the normal sliding of this plate. Other ligaments are collateral, located on the sides of the fingers. They provide their flexion and extension, and also slightly limit the mobility of the joint. For example, with a bent finger, its movement in the lateral plane is impossible, that is, its abduction and adduction. The work of this joint is also controlled by the palmar ligament and the interdigital transverse.

Unlike the big one, which is bent at the metacarpophalangeal joint by less than 90 degrees, the remaining fingers have a large range of motion. The index finger has the least mobility, it can bend 90-100 degrees, no more. Further to the little finger, the amplitude of movements, especially passive ones, increases. And the middle one cannot bend more than 90 degrees even passively due to the tension of the interdigital ligament, which prevents it from approaching the palm.

The metacarpophalangeal joints are the only ones in the hand that can unbend, however, with a small amplitude - no more than 30 degrees. Although in some people the mobility of the fingers can reach such an extent that they unbend at a right angle. In addition, in this place it is possible to perform rotational movements, both passive and active. But each person's mobility is different.

It is in these places that pain most often occurs with age-related changes in tissues, after increased stress, or with other pathologies.

Features of pathologies

Due to such a complex structure of the metacarpophalangeal joints and a large range of motion, they are most often exposed to injuries and various pathologies. Pain in this place may be associated with damage to the joint capsule, the surface of the heads of the bones, the cartilaginous plate or ligaments. They make it difficult to move the hand and lead to serious problems when performing normal activities. Therefore, you should not ignore the first symptoms of pathologies, the sooner treatment is started, the faster the function of the hand will recover.

Such diseases are most common in people over 40 years of age, which is associated with age-related changes in tissues and the consequences of increased stress. Moreover, the most susceptible to damage to the joints of the woman's hand. Indeed, during menopause, hormonal changes take place in their body, which negatively affects the work of the whole organism. In addition, pathologies of the metacarpophalangeal joints can occur due to injuries, increased stress, hypothermia, or infectious diseases.

If you experience pain in the hand, you should definitely consult a doctor for examination and an accurate diagnosis. After all, the treatment of different diseases is different, and their symptoms can often be the same. It is worth visiting a doctor if there is pain when moving a finger or at rest, swelling, redness of the skin, limited movement of the hand.

After diagnostic procedures, one of the following pathologies is usually detected:

• rheumatoid arthritis;
• psoriatic arthritis;
• infectious arthritis;
• osteoarthritis;
• gout;
• stenosing ligamentitis;
• soft tissue inflammation;
• injury.

These joints are often affected by arthritis, causing pain and inflammation.

Arthritis

Most often, the fingers of the hand are affected by arthritis. This is an inflammatory disease that affects the joint cavity. Arthritis can occur as a complication after a common infectious disease, injury, or as a result of pathologies of the immune system. The joints of the fingers can be affected by rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic or infectious. Common symptoms of these diseases are pain, swelling, hyperemia, and limited mobility.

But there are differences between different types of arthritis. The rheumatoid form of the disease is characterized by a chronic course and symmetry of the lesions of the fingers on both hands. In psoriatic arthritis, inflammation of just one finger can develop. But all his joints are affected. At the same time, it swells up and becomes like a sausage.

In infectious arthritis, inflammation is associated with the entry of pathogenic microorganisms into the joint cavity. Mainly one joint is affected. There is a jerking pain, often very strong, swelling, fever. Sometimes pus accumulates in the joint cavity.

Arthrosis

Chronic degenerative joint disease is arthrosis. It usually develops in several places at once, but often affects the base of the fingers. This pathology is characterized by aching pains that occur after exertion, stiffness of the joint, its deformation. All this leads over time to the inability to perform elementary finger movements: fasten buttons, hold a spoon, write something.

Arthrosis affects cartilage tissue, leading to its destruction. Therefore, the metacarpophalangeal joint with this pathology can quickly lose mobility. After all, its peculiarity is that a large range of movements is provided by the sliding of the fibrocartilaginous plate. And when it is destroyed, the joint is blocked.

Sometimes there is rhizarthrosis, in which the first finger is isolated. The reasons for the destruction of cartilage tissue in this place are regular increased loads on it. Rhizarthrosis must be differentiated from gout or psoriatic arthritis, the symptoms of which are similar, but their treatment is very different.

The destruction of cartilage tissue in arthrosis leads to severe deformity of the joints.

Gout

This is a pathology of metabolic processes, as a result of which the accumulation of uric acid in the blood and the deposition of salts in the joints begins. Gout usually affects the metatarsophalangeal joints of the foot, but in women, it can also occur on the thumbs.

The disease develops paroxysmal. During an exacerbation, there is a sharp severe pain in the joint, it swells and turns red. It becomes impossible to touch it and move your finger. The attack usually lasts from a few days to a week. Gradually, gout can lead to deformity of the joints and their complete immobility.

Inflammation of the ligaments

If the annular ligament of the fingers is affected, they speak of the development of stenosing ligamentitis. The main symptoms of the pathology resemble arthrosis - pain also occurs during movement. A characteristic feature of the disease is clearly audible clicks during movement, and sometimes jamming of the finger in a bent position.

Similar to this pathology is tendonitis - inflammation of the collateral or palmar ligaments. But its feature is the jamming of the finger in an extended position, often the patient cannot bend it on his own.

The metacarpophalangeal joint is very vulnerable, especially at the thumb

Injuries

Injuries to the metacarpophalangeal joints are common. Athletes are especially susceptible to them, but you can injure your hand even when doing homework with careless movement. The most common injury in this place is a bruise, which is accompanied by severe pain and the development of a hematoma. It is painful to move your finger, but all symptoms most often disappear quickly even without treatment.

A more serious injury is a dislocation. The metacarpophalangeal joint can be injured when it is overextended, for example, during sports or when falling. In this case, severe pain occurs, the joint is deformed and swells. Quite often there is a dislocation of the thumb, as it is subjected to the greatest stress. And opposing it to the rest of the brush makes it vulnerable.

Treatment

When treating pathologies in this place, it should be remembered that the immobilization of the metacarpophalangeal joints can only be carried out in the flexion position. Indeed, due to the peculiarities of the work of the collateral ligaments, their prolonged fixation can lead to further stiffness of the finger. Therefore, if immobilization is necessary, for example, after an injury, you need to do it correctly. It is best to use a ready-made orthosis or a bandage applied by a doctor. But otherwise, diseases of these joints are treated in the same way as similar pathologies in other places.

Most often, patients turn to the doctor because of pain. To get rid of them, drugs of the NSAID group or analgesics are prescribed. It can be "Baralgin", "Trigan", "Ketanov", "Diclofenac". Moreover, they can be used both internally and externally in the form of ointments. With severe pain, injections are sometimes made directly into the joint cavity. In advanced cases, corticosteroids may be used.

With the destruction of cartilage tissue, the use of chondroprotectors is effective. At the initial stage, they are able to completely stop tissue degeneration. Sometimes joint damage and metabolic disorders in them are associated with circulatory pathologies. In this case, "Actovegin", "Vinpocetine" or "Cavinton" may be prescribed. These drugs improve blood circulation and nerve conduction, as well as accelerate the processes of tissue regeneration. If the inflammation is caused by an infection, antibiotics are necessarily used: Ofloxacin, Doxycycline, Cefazolin and others.

In the treatment of these pathologies, it is especially important to relieve pain, which greatly reduces the performance of the hand.

After the disappearance of pain and inflammation, auxiliary methods of treatment are prescribed to restore the mobility of the fingers. These can be physiotherapy, for example, magnetotherapy, mud applications, paraffin, acupuncture, electrophoresis. Therapeutic gymnastics for the fingers is also useful, since prolonged immobilization can lead to muscle atrophy. Special exercises prevent the development of stiffness, improve blood circulation and tissue nutrition.

The metacarpophalangeal joints are the most important for the normal functioning of the hand. But injuries and various pathologies that affect this joint can lead to a complete loss of its performance.