Bouchard's nodes: what they are and how to treat this joint condition

Bouchard's nodes are so named because French pathologist Charles Jacques Bouchard was the first to describe these bony protrusions that occur in the proximal (middle) interphalangeal joints and appear as a result of osteoarthritis. This degenerative bone health problem , although it cannot be prevented, can be treated to control its progression.

Although these lumps or deformities measuring 1 to 5 centimeters can arise after a previous injury, they most commonly appear without any direct cause. As a general rule, it's important to know that Bouchard's nodes are more common in women than in men, appear around the age of 50, and appear in half of people diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis , especially in the fingers, elbows, feet, and ankles.

What is osteoarthritis?

Before delving into what Bouchard's nodes can mean, it's helpful to understand the disease that can cause them in most cases, although there is also a hereditary component. Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis and involves the progressive wear and tear of the cartilage that surrounds the bones in the joints.

Osteoarthritis is not the same as rheumatoid arthritis, although they have many things in common, as both affect the joints. Osteoarthritis is a disease in which the immune system attacks the joints , starting with the protective layer, the lining.

Arthritis means "joint inflammation" and is a term that encompasses a variety of conditions , each with distinct characteristics and treatment approaches. Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are two of the most common types, but they are not the same.

Symptoms of osteoarthritis, the 'cause' of Bouchard's nodes

Osteoarthritis is often associated with aging, but it can also occur after an injury as a result of the breakdown and wear of the protective cartilage that cushions the joints, causing the bones to rub together.

This joint degeneration can cause pain (or not), swelling, and difficulty with normal mobility. While this condition can affect any joint, it is most commonly diagnosed in the knees, hips, lower back, and hands . The presence of Bouchard's nodes indicates an underlying arthritic process, which often leads to joint deformity and reduced mobility.

What causes Bouchard's nodes?

Although we've already mentioned that the main cause is underlying osteoarthritis, these bumps also have a genetic predisposition. People with a family history of osteoarthritis or related diseases are more likely to develop these bone deformities, to varying degrees of severity.

Other factors that could influence the appearance of nodules include aging, since the likelihood increases with age ; joint injuries in the fingers; and even obesity, which, by causing repetitive stress on the joints, can exacerbate arthritis and lead to the formation of Bouchard's nodules.

Recognizing these bumps is easy, since the joints become inflamed, acquire an annoying stiffness after periods of inactivity, and reduce the possibilities of movement , something that affects the quality of life and daily tasks.

Possible treatments for this joint disease

Although Bouchard's nodes cannot be cured , some treatments can help control symptoms and improve quality of life. In addition to physical therapy, which improves flexibility and strength in the limbs, specific orthotics can reduce stress by stabilizing the joints.

Regarding pain, if present, painkillers and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are the patient's allies, as are certain creams containing capsaicin or menthol, which may alleviate discomfort. Finally, in the most severe cases, surgery is possible to replace the damaged joint, restoring its function. Weight control, a diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods, and practicing some sport are measures that would help us control the disease.

References

Mercedes Fernández-Moreno, Ignacio Rego, and Francisco J. Blanco. 'Genetics in Osteoarthritis'. Osteoarticular and Aging Research Laboratory. Rheumatology Department. Juan Canalejo University Hospital Complex (A Coruña). Accessed online at https://www.reumatologiaclinica.org/es-genetica-osteoartritis-articulo-13111158 on April 6, 2025.

Do you want to receive the best content to take care of your health and feel good? Sign up for our new free newsletter .