Bone spurs, also called osteophytes, are little deposits of bone material that can form on bones, usually around the joints. They can also occur along the spine and near ligaments and tendons. They usually form because the body is trying to increase the surface area of the bone to make up for bone loss due to diseases like osteoporosis and arthritis. Sometimes, bone spurs don't cause any pain and you could have them and not even know it. However, sometimes the bone spurs rub against nerves and can cause great pain and irritation.
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Symptoms
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The symptoms that occur due to bone spurs usually depend on where they are located. Bone spurs that are located in places like the shoulders, hips, knees and elbows can create pain and mobility issues. If they are located on the spine or neck they can cause different problems. Bone spurs located on the spine can cause pain and numbness in other areas of the body, making the diagnosis difficult. Sometimes, bone spurs in the neck can restrict blood flow to the brain.
Causes
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There are a few possible causes of bone spurs. Some doctors think that bone spurs might be a normal part of aging because they are often found on the bones of elderly people. Usually they occur because of some preexisting condition that is affecting your bone health. Sufferers of osteoporosis often have trouble with bone spurs. This is because the bones try to heal themselves and grow back as they deteriorate. Usually, Plantar fasciitis, the condition of having a bone spur on the heel of your foot, also known as a heel spur, is caused by irritation and strain on the area where the heel connects to the tendons. Heel spurs can also be caused by activities that put stress on the tendons of the feet, like years of dancing, wearing high heels or running.
Diagnosis
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To determine whether any pain and discomfort you are feeling is caused by bone spurs, your doctor will usually perform some imaging tests, like X-rays. Sometimes they can go undetected for years and are found inadvertently on an X-ray taken for a different reason, like pain from arthritis.
Risks
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Sometimes the bone spur can break loose from the bone and cause problems. It can get lodged in joints, causing mobility issues.
Treatment
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No treatment is necessary for bone spurs that are not causing any pain. They are not detrimental to your body. Minor pain can usually be treated with anti-inflammatory drugs, ice and stretching. If the bone spurs are causing frequent pain and more serious symptoms, your doctor may decide to remove them surgically.
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