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Bone Smashing: A Serious Study of the Phenomenon, Its Scientific Rationale, and Related Risks
Introduction
In the realm of aesthetic enhancement, in relation to internet subcultures around "looksmaxxing," there has been a proposed practice called bone smashing. This involves applying blunt trauma to individual facial bones as a way to try and stimulate the process of bone remodeling and therefore create a sharper face shape. While proponents cite Wolff's Law as a theoretical underpinning, physicians warn of the dangers and lack of scientific evidence to show the efficacy of this practice.
Principle of Bone Smashing
Bone smashing is a process of recurrent banging of facial bones—such as cheekbones (zygomatic bones), jawbone (mandible), and brow ridge (supraorbital ridge)—with the aim of compelling bone growth or shaping. The general assumption is that controlled trauma can induce the body's natural bone recasting processes, eventually resulting in a tougher face.
Theoretical Basis: Wolff's Law
The dominant scientific theory used by bone smashing buffs is Wolff's Law, which 19th century German anatomist Julius Wolff formulated. Based on the law, bone in a well-conditioned body will reshape to the loads applied to it and become stronger in order to resist those loads. In practice, this means that bones exposed to repeated stress—such as weight-bearing exercise—can get stronger and denser with time. Wikipedia
But what is important to note is that Wolff's Law describes physiological stress caused by regular, controlled exercises, and not acute trauma caused by blunt trauma. The law has been extensively utilized to describe bone adaptation under mechanical loading, particularly in orthopedic and physical therapy contexts .Wikipedia+1Verywell Health+1
Mechanotransduction and Bone Remodeling
Bone remodeling as a result of mechanical stress is a complex process known as mechanotransduction, where mechanical stimuli are converted to biochemical responses that lead to bone resorption or formation. This is a highly regulated process that depends on the strength, duration, and frequency of stress applied.Orthobullets+4Wikipedia+4Physiopedia+4
Notably, the type of stress that triggers normal bone healing is usually cyclical and controlled, like in normal exercise. Sudden, brutal impacts—like that which occurs in bone smashing—do not simulate such and will be more likely to cause damage.
Risks and Medical Warnings
Medical professionals have expressed extreme concerns over the activity of bone smashing. Presumptive risks are heightened:
* Fractures: Intentional injury causes fractures in bones, leading to displacement and distortions.
* Nerve Damage: The face contains more than one nerve; injury can lead to numbness, tingling, or even paralysis.
* Infections: Trauma to internal or open wounds may become infected and result in further health complications.
* Scarring and Disfigurement: Repeated trauma over time can create permanent scarring, as well as unintended change in appearance.
Experts highlight that there is no scientific proof of the cosmetic efficacy of bone smashing and that an activity like this can cause permanent damage.
Social Media Influence and Misinformation
The popularity of bone smashing is partly credited to social media websites such as TikTok, on which videos endorsing the trend have been viewed millions of times. The common attention has raised its adoption, especially among susceptible crowds that want quick cosmetic enhancements.
However, the information depicted in these videos is not necessarily based on science and does not inform the audience of the danger entailed.
Physicians and nurses advise that individuals exercise their own discretion when it comes to such trends and seek able medical professionals before undergoing any form of self-modification.
CBS News
Conclusion
While more aesthetically pleasing facial features are the desire, the destruction of bones is fraught with severe risks and no scientific merit. Wolff's Law and mechanotransduction doctrines assert the ability of the body to adapt under governed, physiological stress—yet not instantaneous trauma. Those contemplating cosmetic enhancement need to consult medical professionals for the safest best.
References
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not endorse or recommend the practice of bone smashing. Always consult with qualified healthcare providers before undertaking any procedures affecting your health.
Key Bone area for smashing
(Brow Ridge)
(Zygomatic Area)
Introduction
In the realm of aesthetic enhancement, in relation to internet subcultures around "looksmaxxing," there has been a proposed practice called bone smashing. This involves applying blunt trauma to individual facial bones as a way to try and stimulate the process of bone remodeling and therefore create a sharper face shape. While proponents cite Wolff's Law as a theoretical underpinning, physicians warn of the dangers and lack of scientific evidence to show the efficacy of this practice.
Principle of Bone Smashing
Bone smashing is a process of recurrent banging of facial bones—such as cheekbones (zygomatic bones), jawbone (mandible), and brow ridge (supraorbital ridge)—with the aim of compelling bone growth or shaping. The general assumption is that controlled trauma can induce the body's natural bone recasting processes, eventually resulting in a tougher face.
Theoretical Basis: Wolff's Law
The dominant scientific theory used by bone smashing buffs is Wolff's Law, which 19th century German anatomist Julius Wolff formulated. Based on the law, bone in a well-conditioned body will reshape to the loads applied to it and become stronger in order to resist those loads. In practice, this means that bones exposed to repeated stress—such as weight-bearing exercise—can get stronger and denser with time. Wikipedia
But what is important to note is that Wolff's Law describes physiological stress caused by regular, controlled exercises, and not acute trauma caused by blunt trauma. The law has been extensively utilized to describe bone adaptation under mechanical loading, particularly in orthopedic and physical therapy contexts .Wikipedia+1Verywell Health+1
Mechanotransduction and Bone Remodeling
Bone remodeling as a result of mechanical stress is a complex process known as mechanotransduction, where mechanical stimuli are converted to biochemical responses that lead to bone resorption or formation. This is a highly regulated process that depends on the strength, duration, and frequency of stress applied.Orthobullets+4Wikipedia+4Physiopedia+4
Notably, the type of stress that triggers normal bone healing is usually cyclical and controlled, like in normal exercise. Sudden, brutal impacts—like that which occurs in bone smashing—do not simulate such and will be more likely to cause damage.
Risks and Medical Warnings
Medical professionals have expressed extreme concerns over the activity of bone smashing. Presumptive risks are heightened:
* Fractures: Intentional injury causes fractures in bones, leading to displacement and distortions.
* Nerve Damage: The face contains more than one nerve; injury can lead to numbness, tingling, or even paralysis.
* Infections: Trauma to internal or open wounds may become infected and result in further health complications.
* Scarring and Disfigurement: Repeated trauma over time can create permanent scarring, as well as unintended change in appearance.
Experts highlight that there is no scientific proof of the cosmetic efficacy of bone smashing and that an activity like this can cause permanent damage.
Social Media Influence and Misinformation
The popularity of bone smashing is partly credited to social media websites such as TikTok, on which videos endorsing the trend have been viewed millions of times. The common attention has raised its adoption, especially among susceptible crowds that want quick cosmetic enhancements.
However, the information depicted in these videos is not necessarily based on science and does not inform the audience of the danger entailed.
Physicians and nurses advise that individuals exercise their own discretion when it comes to such trends and seek able medical professionals before undergoing any form of self-modification.
CBS News
Conclusion
While more aesthetically pleasing facial features are the desire, the destruction of bones is fraught with severe risks and no scientific merit. Wolff's Law and mechanotransduction doctrines assert the ability of the body to adapt under governed, physiological stress—yet not instantaneous trauma. Those contemplating cosmetic enhancement need to consult medical professionals for the safest best.
References
- Cassata, Cathy. “Bone Smashing: Why TikTok's Dangerous Beauty Trend Isn't Just Dangerous, It Doesn’t Work.” Healthline, 11 Oct. 2023. https://www.healthline.com/health-news/bone-smashing-tiktok-trend-isnt-just-dangerous-it-doesnt-work
- “Wolff's Law.” Wikipedia, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wolff's_lawWikipedia
- “Wolff’s Law: A Way of Understanding How Bones Change.” WebMD, https://www.webmd.com/osteoporosis/what-is-wolffs-lawWebMD
- “Wolff's Law - Physiopedia.” Physiopedia, https://www.physio-pedia.com/Wolff's_LawPhysiopedia
- Lee, Bruce Y. “Bone Smashing TikTok Trend, Here Are Dangers of Hammering Your Face.” Forbes, 28 Sept. 2023. https://www.forbes.com/sites/brucel...rend-here-are-dangers-of-hammering-your-face/
- “What Is Bone Smashing? The Dangerous TikTok Beauty Trend Surgeons Are Warning Against.” CBS News, 6 Nov. 2023. https://www.cbsnews.com/baltimore/news/what-is-bone-smashing-tiktok-beauty-trend/
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not endorse or recommend the practice of bone smashing. Always consult with qualified healthcare providers before undertaking any procedures affecting your health.
Key Bone area for smashing
(Brow Ridge)
(Zygomatic Area)
