Bone Spurs
If you suffer from Bone Spurs, please Schedule an appointment with one of our orthopedic specialists as soon as possible.
What are Bone Spurs?
Bone spurs, also called osteophytes, refer to small, bony growths that develop along the edges of bones. The body often creates these extra bone formations in response to stress, pressure, or damage near a joint. Bone spurs commonly form in areas such as the spine, shoulders, hips, knees, hands, and feet. These growths usually develop slowly as the body attempts to add stability to weakened or worn areas.
Bone spurs often result from aging, arthritis, joint wear and tear, or repeated stress on the bones. Many people have bone spurs without noticing any symptoms because the growths may not affect movement or nearby tissues. When bone spurs press against nerves, tendons, or other structures, they can cause pain, stiffness, swelling, numbness, or limited movement. Specialists may treat painful bone spurs with physical therapy, medications, lifestyle changes, or surgery in severe cases.
Types of Bone Spurs
Bone spurs can develop in different areas of the body, and doctors often classify them by their location. Spinal bone spurs form along the vertebrae and can press against nerves, causing back pain, stiffness, numbness, or weakness. Neck bone spurs develop in the cervical spine and may affect movement or irritate nearby nerves that travel into the shoulders and arms.
Heel bone spurs grow on the bottom or back of the heel and often appear near the plantar fascia or Achilles tendon. Knee bone spurs develop around the knee joint and can limit movement, create stiffness, or cause discomfort during walking. Hip bone spurs form around the hip joint and may reduce flexibility or create pain during activity.
Shoulder bone spurs often develop near the shoulder joint or rotator cuff area and can interfere with arm movement. Hand and finger bone spurs can form around small joints and may create swelling, bumps, stiffness, or difficulty with gripping. Toe bone spurs commonly appear around the big toe joint and can cause pain while walking or wearing shoes. Each type develops from factors such as joint stress, aging, arthritis, or repeated pressure on the affected area.
Causes of Bone Spurs
Bone spurs develop when the body creates extra bone growth in response to stress, pressure, or damage around joints. Aging commonly causes bone spurs because joints experience natural wear and tear over time. Conditions such as arthritis can damage cartilage and encourage the body to form additional bone for support. Repetitive movements, injuries, poor posture, and activities that place repeated stress on joints can also contribute to bone spur formation. Other factors, including excess body weight, joint instability, and genetic traits, can increase the likelihood of developing these bony growths.
Treatment Options for Bone Spurs
For mild cases of bone spurs, doctors often recommend non-surgical treatments to reduce pain and improve movement. Patients can use rest, activity adjustments, and ice or heat therapy to manage discomfort. Physical therapy can help strengthen muscles, improve flexibility, and reduce pressure around affected joints. Specialists may also recommend medications, such as anti-inflammatory drugs, to control pain and swelling. Supportive devices, including braces, shoe inserts, or cushions, can help reduce stress on areas affected by bone spurs.
For severe cases of bone spurs, specialists may recommend more advanced treatments when symptoms interfere with daily activities or cause nerve problems. Corticosteroid injections can reduce inflammation and provide temporary pain relief. When bone spurs press on nerves, restrict movement, or cause persistent pain, surgeons may remove the extra bone growth through a procedure called bone spur removal or decompression surgery. Severe cases that involve damaged joints may require joint repair or replacement procedures to restore function and reduce discomfort.
If you would like to speak to an Orthopedic Specialist in the DFW-Metroplex, give us a call at 817-697-4038, or contact us online. Telemedicine appointments are also available.
