What on Earth is a Bone Spur? Potential Causes, Risk Factors and Treatment Explained

8/20/2018

NATCHEZ, Miss. – August 20, 2018 – In contrast to its name, a bone spur is a smooth, bony growth that forms over a long period of time. Many bone spurs – or osteophytes, as they are formally known – cause no symptoms at all, and you may not know you have one until it shows up during a routine imaging study. The condition is quite common, and can occur in any one of several areas of the body.

According to Dr. Thesselon Monderson, Orthopedist, “A bone spur on its own does not cause pain. “However, depending on the size and location of the spur, it can interact with nearby structures like tendons, nerves or other bones, which can result in pain and loss of mobility.”

Joint damage from an injury or osteoarthritis is the most common cause of bone spurs. As arthritis breaks down the cartilage cushioning the edges of your bones, your body attempts to repair the loss by growing bone spurs in the damaged area. Other potential causes and risk factors include overuse of a joint, obesity, genetic bone problems, conditions like gout or lupus, and narrowing of the spine (spinal stenosis).

Many bone spurs cause no pain or discomfort and do not require any treatment. But symptoms depend on the size and location of the growth and for some patients can have a significant impact on mobility and quality of life. For example, bone spurs in the knee can make it stiff and painful to extend or bend your leg or on the vertebrae, bone spurs can narrow the space that contains your spinal cord, causing weakness or numbness in the arms or legs.

Treatments for bone spurs are as varied as the potential causes and affected body parts. The most immediate treatment is typically the application of rest and anti-inflammatories, either via over-the-counter oral medications or injections. If these steps don’t relieve the discomfort, your physician may suggest a local steroid injection and physical therapy to improve joint strength and increase mobility. If eligible and appropriate, patients may be referred for surgery to remove the spur.

“Keep in mind that bone spurs that are the result of the natural wear and tear from age-related arthritis, may not be avoidable,” said Dr. Sahitya Bhandari, Internal Medicine. “But catching and treating arthritis early is the best way to prevent the damage that leads to bone spurs, along with the general loss of mobility associated with arthritis.”

There are other steps you can take at all stages of life, that will help slow the bone-related aging process. A diet rich in calcium and a daily practice of weight-bearing exercises will build and protect strong bones. Keep your weight in a healthy range, and wear properly-fitted shoes with a wide toe box, good arch support, and enough cushion to pad each step.

If a bone spur is causing your pain, the type of specialist best suited to treat you will depend on the location and nature of the spur. The best path is to work with your primary care physician, who will order the appropriate imaging tests to locate and define the spur. He or she will then refer you as needed to a rheumatologist, orthopedist, podiatrist or spine specialist to ensure the expertise aligned with your specific condition. If you need to be connected with a PCP or specialist of any type please visit our hospital website, www.MeritHealthNatchez, to view a listing of our medical staff.

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