Bony projections that develop along the edges of the bones are known as bone spurs. They are also called Osteophytes. They are smooth and hard bumps of extra bones that form in the joints. These bony projections can develope on hands, heels, spine, knees, shoulders, neck, and hips. Osteophytosis, or the development of bone spurs, is a very common condition after 60 years of age. It could occur in younger adults too.
Symptoms
There may or may not be any symptoms caused by bone spurs. If there are symptoms, the most common ones are:
- Pain in the affected joint
- Weakness, tingling, and numbness in the arms or legs if the bone spur is pressing the nerves in the spine
- Stiffness in the joint where the disease has developed
- Muscle spasms and muscle cramps
- Weakness in the muscles of the joint
- Limiting the range of motion
Causes
The main cause of osteophytosis or formation of bone spur is the damage of joints due to osteoarthritis. When the protective cartilage cushioning is worn out, the body tries to compensate by producing extra bone. Other factors that can lead to bone spurs are:
- Family history
- Obesity
- Diet
- Injury
- Excess use
- Narrowing of the spine
- Congenital bone problems
Treatment
Bone spurs are treated depending upon the severity of the symptoms. If symptoms are absent then treatment is not required. In the case of mild pain and inflammation, medicines such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and naproxen are recommended. For more intense pain and swelling, rest, steroid injections in the joint, and physical therapy to help with muscle strength and greater movement is prescribed. Depending on the location of the bone spur, local mechanical methods such as shoe inserts or bone spur pads may be prescribed. In case the above treatments are not effective in reducing pain and the condition is severely disabling, surgery may be recommended.
Bone spurs that do not cause any symptoms will need no treatment.
These bony projections cannot be prevented but the pain and other symptoms can be relieved by taking pain killers, eating a healthy diet with plenty of calcium and vitamin D, doing muscle strengthening exercises, keeping a healthy weight, and wearing comfortable shoes.
Disclaimer: The information in no way constitutes, or should be construed as medical advice. Nor is the above article an endorsement of any research findings discussed in the article an endorsement for any of the source publications.
