What is a Bone Spur?

A bone spur is a small growth of bone that forms on the edges of normal, healthy bones. They typically form in response to increased pressure, friction, or stress applied to the bones over time. Bone spurs are typically painless, however in some cases they may cause pain, swelling and tenderness in the affected area.

What Causes Bone Spurs?

Bone spurs can be caused by a variety of factors. Some of the most common causes of bone spurs include:

Joint degeneration or arthritis: The wear and tear of natural joint aging can cause the formation of bone spurs. This is most commonly seen in people with osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disorder that can cause the cartilage in joints to break down, leading to bone-on-bone rubbing and causing pain.

Repetitive movement: Repetitive movement, such as running or lifting heavy objects, can put pressure on the joints and may lead to bone spurs forming.

Injury: An injury that damages cartilage and bone in a joint can also cause bone spurs to form.

Infection: Many bone infections can lead to bone spurs forming as the body tries to repair damage.

Nutritional deficiencies: Lack of certain vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin D and calcium, can also lead to bone spur formation.

Treating Bone Spurs

The treatment for bone spurs depends on the underlying cause and the severity of the spurs. In many cases, bone spurs can be reduced or eliminated through lifestyle changes and non-invasive treatments. These treatments may include:

Rest and physical therapy: Resting and physical therapy can help reduce inflammation and pain, as well as strengthening the surrounding muscles and improving joint mobility.

Medication: Over-the-counter medications, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help reduce inflammation and pain.

Surgery: In more severe cases of bone spurs, surgery may be recommended to remove the spur.

In most cases, bone spurs can be managed and treated without surgery, however, the best treatment will depend on the underlying cause and severity of symptoms. It is important to consult with a doctor to determine the best course of treatment.