Bone spurs, also called osteophytes, are small projections that develop along the edge of a bone. All bones are susceptible to developing bone spurs, but they occur most often in joints, according to the Mayo Clinic. Other areas of the body that commonly experience bone spurs include the spine and heels. There is not a defined treatment option for bone spurs, and physicians determine what treatment may benefit the affected individual depending on the severity of the condition.
Symptoms
Bone spurs may cause no symptoms, especially if they are small or do not rub against any nerves, bones or ligaments. Other times, bone spurs cause pain in the joint or area affected. The joint may not have the ability to move as freely as normal while the bone spurs are present, states the Mayo Clinic. Bone spurs along the spine may cause a loss of feeling or pain, depending on the nerve irritated by the spur. On small joints, such as the finger, the bone spur causes lumps or disfigurement of the joint.
Causes
The most common causes of bone spurs are medical conditions associated with bones. Osteoarthritis causes a large percent of bone spur cases. As the disease destroys cartilage in the joint, the body rebuilds bone on the edge of the existing bone to combat the cartilage loss. The new bone formation causes the bone spurs. As an individual ages, bone spurs may occur spontaneously.
Diagnosis
A physician confirms a bone spur by feeling the joint for the spur and with imaging scans. X-rays, CT scans and MRI scans all provide images of bone spurs.
Treatment
Treatment for the condition varies, depending on the severity of symptoms caused by the bone spurs. If there is no pain or problems associated with the bone spurs, they are left alone and no treatment is necessary. To treat pain caused by the spurs, a physician will recommend an appropriate oral pain medication. Bone spurs causing a decreased range of motion or extreme pain may require surgery to remove the spurs.
Complications
A possible complication associated with bone spurs occurs when they break off the bone. The loose spurs float around in the joint, causing it to lock up. This hinders the movement of the joint.
