The bones in our body are constantly being broken down and reformed. This process is known as bone remodeling. Sometimes bone remodeling can happen inadvertently as a result of underlying problems. When this happens, abnormal bony outgrowths known as osteophytes, or bone spurs, can occur, which can cause pain and inflammation.
Definition
Osteophytes are small bony outgrowths. They typically project out from the edges of bones and occur most readily at joints, as that is where the bones come together. Bone spurs typically form as a result of some underlying condition that causes abnormal bone formation. Osteoarthritis, for example, can cause different types of bone spurs to develop.
Types
Medcyclopaedia explains that there are four major types of osteophytes. Marginal osteophytes can form at the edges of joints (where the two bones are not touching). Central osteophytes are bone spurs that occur in the middle of the joint, causing a bumpy appearance. Periosteal osteophytes occur within the cartilage in a joint, leading to the cartilage appearing abnormally thick. And bone spurs can form in the fibrous cap that surrounds some joints, leading to capsular osteophytes.
Symptoms
In general, bone spurs cause pain and a loss of motion within joints. The Mayo Clinic explains that based on their location, osteophytes can lead to other symptoms. Bone spurs within the spine can cause compression and pinching of the spinal cord, resulting in pain and tingling in other parts of the body. If the bone spurs occur in the neck, they can also cause neck pain and restrict blood flow to the brain. Osteophytes in the fingers can cause the appearance of lumps under the skin. Bone spurs in the shoulder can cause injury to the rotator cuff, which is a series of muscles that hold the shoulder in place. This can cause weakening of the shoulder and inflammation.
Causes
As the Medcyclopaedia explains, one of the most common causes of bone spurs is osteoarthritis. With osteoarthritis, the loss of cartilage causes the bones to rub together, leading to inflammation. This inflammation can stimulate the growth of osteophytes. Other common causes include spondylosis (degeneration of the vertebrae), plantar fasciitis (irritation and inflammation of connective tissue in the feet) as well as a condition known as diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (a medical problem that causes bone spurs to develop in the ligaments in the spine).
Treatment
Asymptomatic bone spurs require no treatment. Mild inflammation and pain that are the result of osteophyte formation are typically treated using nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Bone spurs that cause severe pain or are compressing nerves and arteries can be surgically removed. The surgery can either be done openly (with a single large incision) or arthroscopically (several small incisions used along with special surgical tools).
