Putting Your Finger on Osteoarthritis

A new study at the University of Nottingham, in England, revealed that the length of your index finger might predict if you are more apt to get osteoarthritis (OA).

The study revealed that women whose index finger is shorter than their ring finger might be more likely to develop knee OA. Men typically have index fingers that are shorter, however women usually have the same length ring finger and index finger. Women who have the shorter index finger are three times more likely to develop knee osteoarthritis. This predisposition was present regardless of age, Body Mass Index (BMI) or lack of physical activity.

If you flunked the index finger test, you cannot change the length of your finger, but you can take steps to decrease your risk of OA. Knee OA can be reduced with weight loss, wearing low-heeled shoes, a healthier lifestyle and taking Omega-3 supplements.

Dr. Mario Fucinari D.C. is a chiropractic physician and director of Decatur Back and Neck Center. Contact us for an appointment today.