Involves nodes on the smaller joints of the fingers in patients with a history osteoarthritis a disease type of arthritis.

More often seen in the older population and in women more often than men.

Possible genetic component may be involved

Caused by osteophytes of the articular cartilage as a response to trauma to the joint

Bouchard’s nodes may also be present – similar bony growth in the PIP joints- (Proximal interphalangeal joints)

Symptoms:

   -    Bony or Hard swelling of fingers
   -    Often seen in the distal interphalangeal joints (DIP)
   -    The DIP are the joints closest to the end of fingers and toes
   -    Swelling
   -    Redness
   -    Joint Pain
   -    Numbness
   -    Loss of motion
   -    Loss of dexterity

Treatment

NSAIDs and Tylenol for pain and as treatment of arthritis

Is not curative

So named because of William Heberden (1710-1801)