Bone spurs, also known as osteophytes, are smooth projections that grow on the edges of normal bones in response to stress. They are one sign of osteoarthritis. The cervical spine is particularly susceptible to developing osteoarthritis and bone spurs because of its high degree of mobility. Over time, as the spine experiences additional stress, it begins to break down and degenerate, leading to bone spur growth. According to the Mayo Clinic, bone spurs are not usually painful by themselves, but cause pain by putting pressure on nearby nerves and other soft tissues. Treatments for bone spurs in the cervical spine are designed to reduce symptoms.
Hot/Cold
The larger bone spurs become, the more likely they are to irritate the tissues near them and cause pain, inflammation, loss of range of motion and possibly neurological symptoms. Using ice in the early stages after symptoms begin can help reduce pain and inflammation. Never apply ice directly on the skin, because it can cause freezing burns. Instead, wrap the ice pack in the towel and apply to the painful area for 20 minutes every few hours. After the first 72 hours, it is appropriate to use a heat pack.
Rest
According to Spine-health.com, activity or mobility of the cervical spine can cause flare-ups and therefore, a short period of rest is appropriate. It may be helpful to use a soft cervical collar to aid in immobility. Resting beyond a day or two will exacerbate the problem by causing muscle atrophy.
Medication
Those who suffer with symptoms related to bone spurs may find good relief with the use of over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication, or NSAIDs, according to Spine Universe. These drugs are particularly useful because they treat both inflammation and pain. If symptoms are severe, a doctor may prescribe a short course of narcotics and muscle relaxers. In some cases, injection of corticosteroids may be of use. These drugs can be injected directly into the joint space and help reduce inflammation and pain.
Therapy
Bone spurs are the result of excessive wear and tear that can occur because the joints of the neck are not functioning properly. Chiropractors are trained to diagnose and treat dysfunction in the spine and can help restore proper motion to each of the spinal joints. Chiropractors use adjustments or manipulation as their main form of treatment. Both chiropractors and physical therapists use stretching and exercise to help restore mobility to the soft tissues surrounding the joints. According to Spine-health, a few weeks of chiropractic manipulation and physical therapy often alleviates painful joint conditions.
Surgery
The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons reports that in rare cases, bone spurs may cause such severe pain and neurological symptoms that surgery may be required. Most people with bone spurs respond well to conservative treatment and manage their symptoms without surgery.
