Bone spurs are bony outgrowths that form on the bones. They can occur anywhere in the body, but are most commonly found on the spine, shoulders, hips, and knees. Bone spurs can be found on the outside of the bones (exostosis) or on the inner surface of the bones (intraosteal). They are usually smooth, but can be jagged and irregular in shape.
Bone spurs are most often caused by repetitive trauma or overuse of a joint. This can happen from playing sports, working in a factory, or performing a job that requires repetitive motions. Bone spurs can also be caused by arthritis. This is a condition that causes the cartilage in the joints to deteriorate. The bone then rubs against the cartilage, which eventually leads to the formation of a bone spur.
Most bone spurs do not cause any symptoms. However, if the bone spur rubs against a tendon or a nerve, it can cause pain, numbness, or tingling. In some cases, a bone spur can also limit the range of motion of a joint. If a bone spur presses on the spinal cord, it can cause pain, weakness, or paralysis.
Bone spurs are usually diagnosed with a physical examination and x-rays. However, in some cases, an MRI or CT scan may be necessary to get a clear image of the bone spur.
There is no specific treatment for bone spurs. However, if they are causing pain or limiting the range of motion of a joint, your doctor may recommend surgery to remove them. In most cases, this is a fairly simple procedure that can be done on an outpatient basis.
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What are bone spurs?
Bone spurs, also called osteophytes, are smooth, hard outgrowths of bone that form along joints or other areas of bone where there is repetitive stress or trauma. Bone spurs can occur anywhere in the body, but most commonly develop in the spine, hips, shoulders, knees, and hands. While bone spurs are often painless, they can cause pain and inflammation if they press on nerves or other tissues. Treatment for bone spurs depends on the location and symptoms. In some cases, no treatment is necessary.
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How do you know if you have bone spurs?
There are a few ways that you can tell if you have bone spurs. One way is if you have pain in your joints or bones. This is usually a dull, aching pain. You may also feel pain when you move certain joints. Another way to tell if you have bone spurs is if you have difficulty moving certain joints. This may be because the bone spur is pressing on a nerve. You may also have swelling around the joint. If you have any of these symptoms, you should see a doctor. They can confirm if you have bone spurs and check for any other problems.
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What are the symptoms of bone spurs?
The symptoms of bone spurs can vary depending on the location of the spur. For example, bone spurs on the heel can cause pain when walking. Bone spurs in the neck can cause pain and stiffness when moving the neck. In general, bone spurs can cause pain, stiffness, and decreased range of motion.
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What is the treatment for bone spurs?
Most bone spurs are treated with conservative measures such as rest, ice, physical therapy, and pain medications. If these measures fail to provide relief, your doctor may recommend a corticosteroid injection or surgery.
Corticosteroid injections are used to reduce inflammation and pain. They are typically given every four to six weeks. Surgery is usually only considered when other treatments have failed and the bone spur is causing significant pain and disability. Surgery involves removing the bone spur and any surrounding soft tissue.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What causes bone spurs in the joints?
As osteoarthritis progresses, the cartilage that cushions the ends of your bones breaks down. This exposes the bone and allows it to become abnormal in shape. Bone spurs can form when your body tries to repair this damage by creating small bone protrusions (known as knobs or buttons) near the joint. The area around the spur may become inflamed, causing pain and swelling.
What are bone spurs and are they dangerous?
A bone spur is a tough, knob- or cone-shaped bump on the surface of a bone. It's most often characteristic of the foot and can develop after damage to the joint or as a result of overuse. Bone spurs are harmless unless they rub against other bones or press on nerves, in which case they might cause pain and stiffness.
What is a bone spur on the spine?
A bone spur on the spine is a lump of extra bone that can form on the back side of one or more vertebrae. Bone spurs can cause pain and discomfort when you move your spine, and may require surgery to remove them.
What causes bone spurs to form?
The exact cause of bone spurs is unknown, but they may be the result of: ● Damage to the bones themselves ● Inflammation in the joint ● Weakness or unevenness in the cartilage that cushions and protects your bones
Do bone spurs cause pain?
If they rub against other bones or press on nerves, they might. Bone spurs can also form when the cushioning between your joints and bones of your spine wears down with age. This can lead to pain and stiffness.
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