Bone spurs in the neck, or cervical spondylosis, is the degeneration of the joints in the neck that cause bone spur formation. Bone spurs are humps of bone that form over time with wear and tear of the joints in the neck. Bone spurs can become large enough to compress nerves that are exiting the spine, which can cause significant pain, numbness and weakness in the arms and hands. Furthermore, bone spurs can cause neck stiffness, because the cervical vertebrae cannot move normally over one another. Treatments for cervical spondylosis are generally conservative, but surgery may be necessary.
Physical Therapy
The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (AAOS) states that physical therapy may be useful in treating bone spurs in the neck. Physical therapy will not get rid of the bone spurs; instead, a physical therapist will help a patient strengthen and stretch muscles in the neck, which may provide adequate pain relief. In addition, a therapist may use cervical traction and posture therapy, which can also help to reduce symptoms. After completing physical therapy sessions, a patient should perform all recommended physical therapy exercises at home on a regular basis.
Medications
Medications may also be particularly helpful in treating bone spurs in the neck. MayoClinic.com states that acetaminophen is a common over-the-counter (OTC) medication given to treat pain associated with bone spurs in the neck. While acetaminophen may be effective in relieving pain, it does not reduce inflammation that may occur with bone spurs in the neck. Furthermore, a patient should not take more than the recommended dosage to prevent serious liver damage.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be given to reduce pain and inflammation associated with bone spurs in the neck. This medication reduces chemical signals in the bones of the neck that are related to pain and inflammation. Thus, NSAIDs may provide significant relief in symptoms. Patients taking NSAIDs should be aware that they may cause stomach bleeding, liver damage, kidney damage or heart problems.
Surgery
When bone spurs become large and cause significant symptoms, surgery may be necessary. Specifically, patients with progressively worsening weakness, numbness and pain of the upper extremity are more likely to be surgical candidates, states the AAOS. Surgery may involve fusion of the vertebrae and removal of the bone spurs that are causing symptoms. Risks of surgery include infection, excessive bleeding and nerve damage. Range of neck motion may also be affected. Thus, the risks and benefits of neck surgery for bone spurs should be thoroughly discussed with a surgeon.
