Why Are My Hands Bony?
Bony hands can be due to several factors, most commonly age-related changes and underlying medical conditions.
As we age, our bodies undergo natural changes. This includes a decrease in both fat and collagen. This loss of subcutaneous fat in the hands leads to a thinner appearance, making the bones more prominent. Simultaneously, the breakdown of collagen results in thinner skin, further accentuating the bony structure. [Source: Your Hands Change as You Age]
Medical Conditions
Certain medical conditions can also contribute to bony hands. For example, osteoarthritis can cause the development of Heberden's nodes, which are small, bony growths that appear at the finger joints closest to the fingertips. [Sources: Heberden's Nodes: What It Is, Causes, Symptoms & Treatment; Heberden's Nodes: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments] Similarly, Bouchard's nodes are bony growths that appear on the middle joints of the fingers and can also be associated with osteoarthritis. [Source: Causes and Treatment of Bone Spurs in Hands] Other conditions, though less directly related, can also lead to a thinner appearance in the hands due to weight loss or muscle atrophy.
Other Factors
The distribution of body fat is also an important factor. A person can have bony hands and still possess significant fat in other body areas, like the thighs. This is normal variation in body composition and doesn't necessarily indicate a medical problem. [Source: My hands are bony, but my thighs are extremely fat and thick. How ...]
Addressing Bony Hands
While you can't completely change the underlying bone structure of your hands, there are options to improve their appearance. Procedures such as injections with fillers, like Radiesse, can temporarily add volume and plumpness to the hands, making them appear less bony. [Source: How To Make My Hands Look Less Bony]
When to See a Doctor
If you experience pain, swelling, or any other unusual changes in your hands, it’s vital to consult a healthcare professional to rule out any underlying medical conditions. [Sources: Heberden's Nodes: What It Is, Causes, Symptoms & Treatment; Causes and Treatment of Bone Spurs in Hands; Wrist Lumps & Hand Lumps: Causes & Symptoms]
