Bad Habits That Aren’t So Bad

In the middle of a test there is a cracking noise from the back of the room, this is something that is common at Academy. Between 25 and 54 percent of people crack their knuckles. If someone constantly cracks their knuckles it causes the sensation that they need to be cracked, which is how it becomes a habit.

Most people think that cracking knuckles causes arthritis, but that is not the case.

“I crack my knuckles without even thinking about it, when I’m stressed I do it the most” said Taylor Scott (’19).

Studies show that there are no definitive links between knuckle cracking and arthritis or any other medical condition.

“My mom always tells me to stop because she thinks it is bad for me, but it’s so hard not to” said Scott. 

Why do knuckles crack? All joints are bathed in fluid. When a joint is “cracked,” nitrogen bubbles are released, which creates a popping sound. The movement of ligaments around the joint can also cause a popping sound.

Nail biting is a habit that affects much more than just nails. The effects of nail biting are much more severe than most people think. It can also affect teeth and the stomach. On average 20 to 30 percent of people struggle with the bad habit of nail biting. 

It is something that is commonly done when people are stressed or nervous. “I always bite my nails while taking tests, it’s something I feel like I need to do.” said Grace Buckhorn (‘19). There are many products that can be used to stop nail biting like a nail polish called “Bite No More” it is a clear polish that has a horrible taste which causes people to stop biting their nails.

“I have used something like Bite No More, it tasted so bad I never wanted to put my fingers near my mouth” said Grace Anthony (`20).