Bone Spurs

A bone spur is an unusual growth that occurs along the edges of the bone. A bone spur is also known as an extra bone or ‘osteophytes’. Bone spurs can cause pain if it presses against other bones and can affect ligaments, tendons, and other soft tissues. The most common areas where bones spurs occur are the spine, shoulders, neck, hip, and knees.

Bone spurs are formed when the body tries to repair itself by building an additional bone. They occur due to stress on a bone that occurs for a period of time. Common symptoms of bone spurs include bones rubbing together and pain or tear in the ligaments, tendons, and cartilage. A bone spur that rubs against ligaments and tendons can cause pain and sometimes tear the tissue. Bone spurs that occur in the spine can pinch nerves and cause loss of motion.

The most common cause of a bone spur are osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis breaks down the cartilage and ligaments in your body and repairs it by rebuilding additional bone. Sometimes there is excess bone and bone spurs start to develop. Bone spurs can be diagnosed with X-rays, but are usually taken if there are any additional problems such as osteoarthritis.

Bone spurs don’t usually require treatment unless there is pain and discomfort. Pain caused by bone spurs are often treated with medication. Anti-inflammatory medications can help reduce the pain and inflammation caused by bone spurs. If it continues to get worse, your orthopedist may recommend surgery to replace the damaged joint or tissue. Sometimes, weight loss is required in order to take pressure off of the joints. If the inflammation is minimal, bone spurs are also able to heal on their own.

There is no way to prevent bone spurs since most cases develop from arthritis. Maintaining a healthy weight and lifestyle can help prevent bone spurs. Our orthopedists will help you treat your bone spur and will recommend any treatment or surgical procedures needed to be done.