Does Finger Bending Affect Hand Growth Plates in Adults? - Orthopedics

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Bending your fingers, or engaging in activities that may seem to stress the joints, generally does not affect the growth plates in adults, especially if those growth plates have already fused. In your case, since you mentioned that your hand growth plates have already fused, it indicates that your bones have reached their mature size, and further growth in length is no longer possible.
Growth plates, also known as epiphyseal plates, are areas of developing cartilage tissue located at the ends of long bones. In children and adolescents, these plates are responsible for the lengthening of bones as they grow. Once an individual reaches adulthood, these growth plates undergo a process called epiphyseal closure, where they harden and fuse, marking the end of bone growth. This typically occurs in late adolescence to early adulthood, around the ages of 18 to 25, depending on the individual and the specific bone in question.

Since you have already had your growth plates evaluated and confirmed to be fused, your habit of bending your fingers should not pose any risk to the growth plates. However, it is essential to be mindful of any potential strain or injury that could arise from repetitive stress on the joints. Chronic stress or injury to the joints can lead to conditions such as arthritis or tendinitis over time, but this is separate from the growth plate concerns.

As for whether you need to have your foot growth plates examined, it is generally unnecessary unless there are specific concerns about growth or development in your feet. The growth plates in the feet and hands do not necessarily close at the same time, but if your hand growth plates are fused, it is likely that your foot growth plates are also nearing closure, especially if you are already in your late teens or early twenties.

In summary, bending your fingers as an adult will not affect your hand growth plates, particularly since they are already fused. If you have any concerns about joint pain or discomfort related to your finger-bending habit, it may be beneficial to consult with a healthcare professional for further evaluation. Regular check-ups can help monitor your overall joint health and ensure that any potential issues are addressed promptly.