What causes bone spurs in hand joints?

Bone spurs in the hand joints are usually caused by long-term wear and tear and degeneration of the joints, a condition medically known as osteoarthritis. Bone spurs are small protrusions formed by excessive bone growth, usually after the cartilage wears away and the body attempts to stabilize the joint by adding bone mass. Most bone spurs do not cause obvious symptoms, but in some cases, they can cause pain and limited movement.

As you age, the cartilage in your joints degenerates and friction and inflammation may occur in the joints of your fingers. When the stress on a joint exceeds its capacity, the body begins to compensate by building extra bone. This compensation mechanism is the body's natural repair process, just like the patch on the bottom of a pair of shoes becomes thicker after being worn out, but this "repair" can lead to the formation of bone spurs. Bone spurs in the hand joints can be found around the interphalangeal joints or basal joints, and are usually more common in middle-aged and elderly people. Overuse of the fingers or joint injuries are also common causes.

Bone spurs in the hand joints may cause stiffness, swelling, or pain during movement of the fingers. When bone spurs severely affect bone and joint function, they may even form noticeable nodules or lumps under the skin. For people who already have bone spurs, it becomes difficult to move and use the hands, and these symptoms may be more pronounced in cold or humid environments. In daily life, we can relieve discomfort through gentle finger exercises, using warm, wet cloths on the joints, and taking appropriate joint protection measures.

If the symptoms seriously affect your daily life, it is recommended to seek professional guidance from a doctor. The doctor may recommend imaging examinations, such as X-rays, to better evaluate the condition of the bone spur and provide targeted treatment options, such as medication relief, physical therapy, and even surgery to remove the bone spur to relieve symptoms if necessary. At the same time, maintaining a proper weight and a balanced diet can help reduce joint pressure and improve overall joint health.