Knuckle facts for kids

Knuckles is also the name of a Sonic the Hedgehog-related video game character

A knuckle is a special place where two bones meet, usually in your hands or feet. When we talk about humans, knuckles are most often the joints you see on your fingers when you make a fist. These joints help your fingers bend and move in many ways.

What Are Knuckles?

Knuckles are part of your body's amazing design. They are joints, which are like hinges that connect bones. In your hand, you have several knuckles:

• The big knuckles at the base of your fingers, where your fingers meet your palm. These are called the metacarpophalangeal joints.
• The smaller knuckles in the middle of your fingers. These are called the proximal interphalangeal joints.
• The smallest knuckles closest to your fingertips. These are called the distal interphalangeal joints.

Each knuckle is made up of the ends of two bones, covered in smooth cartilage to help them glide easily. Strong bands of tissue called ligaments hold these bones together, keeping the joint stable.

Why Knuckles Are Important

Your knuckles are super important for almost everything you do with your hands!

• Movement: They allow your fingers to bend, straighten, and grip objects. Without them, you couldn't pick up a pencil, tie your shoes, or even wave hello.
• Strength: When you make a fist, your knuckles become very prominent and strong. This is why they are often used for punching, though it's important to protect them.
• Flexibility: The many joints in your fingers, including your knuckles, give your hands incredible flexibility, allowing for delicate tasks like playing a musical instrument or typing.

Protecting Your Knuckles

Because knuckles are so important and can be exposed, it's good to protect them, especially during sports or activities where your hands might get hit.

• Gloves: Many athletes, like boxers or motorcyclists, wear gloves with extra padding or hard protectors over their knuckles. This helps prevent injuries like sprains or fractures.
• Proper Technique: If you participate in sports that involve hitting, like martial arts, learning the correct technique is key to protecting your knuckles and hands.

Knuckles in Animals

Just like humans, many animals have knuckles too! These joints help them move their paws, hooves, or claws. Sometimes, parts of animals, like pig knuckles, are prepared and sold as food. This is a common practice in some cultures, where the meaty part around these joints is cooked and eaten.

Images for kids

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  Clenched fist with knuckles (encircled in red)

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  Motorcycle racing gloves with titanium knuckle protectors

See also

In Spanish: Nudillo para niños