Sesamoid Bones: Small Round Bones in Tendons
Sesamoid bones play a crucial role in the human body by forming within tendons to provide a smooth surface for guiding muscle movement. These small, round bones can develop naturally or as a response to a strain or injury. In the hand, the number of sesamoid bones varies between individuals.
One area where sesamoid bones are almost always present is in the tendons of the metacarpophalangeal joints of the thumb. In fact, a pair of sesamoid bones is commonly found in this area. While sesamoid bones can potentially develop at almost every metacarpophalangeal and distal interphalangeal joint, this occurrence is relatively uncommon.
Injuries
Hand injuries are quite common due to the presence of numerous delicate bones beneath a thin layer of skin and muscle. As hands are constantly engaged in various daily activities, they are prone to injuries. Additionally, the hand contains a greater number of joints compared to any other part of the body, making it susceptible to arthritis. The most frequently encountered hand injuries include wrist sprains, fractures of individual bones, and dislocation of phalanges.