Bone Spurs (Osteophytes)

What is a Bone Spur?

A bone spur is a smooth, hard bump of additional bone that has grown at the bone’s edge. More often than not, they appear where the joints meet. Bone spurs are common, specifically in those over the age of 50.

Lumbar osteophytes are bone spurs that grow in the lower back. They are a result of degenerative spinal changes. The most common area for one to form due to back pain is in the neck and back. Although, many bone spurs do not cause pain.

What Causes a Bone Spur?

The most common cause of osteophytes is from joint damage, such as osteoarthritis or degenerative joint disease. Bone spurs are common with the normal aging process.

As we age, it’s normal for our spine to undergo changes and wear down. Certain conditions can damage your joints, such as lupus, gout, and RA. Injuries can also damage a joint or tendon, forming bone spurs.

Additional causes of bone spurs, such as:

• Injuries
• Overuse – Performing an activity over and over again
• Hereditary bone issues
• Spinal stenosis
• Diet
• Obesity
• Genetics

Osteophytes Symptoms

Typically bone spurs are found when a patient gets an x-ray for another condition or symptom. Typically they do not cause problems unless they press on a nerve or tendon. When this occurs symptoms are as follows:

• Pain in the affected joint
• Pain or stiffness when you try to bend or move the affected joint
• Weakness, numbness, or tingling in your arms or legs if the bone spur presses on nerves in your spine
• Muscle spasms, cramps, or weakness
• Bumps under your skin, seen mainly in the hands and fingers
• Trouble controlling your bladder or bowels if the bone spur presses on certain nerves in your spine (a symptom that’s seen very rarely)

Symptoms might worsen when you exercise or try to move the affected joint.

Treatment for Bone Spurs 

Bone spurs are treated with medications to bring down the swelling. These medications include Tylenol, Advil, Motrin, or Aleve. 

Additional treatment methods for bone spurs, such as:

• Rest
• Steroid shots to bring down swelling and reduce pain in the joints
• Physical therapy to improve joint strength and increase movement

Surgical intervention might be required if to remove the extra bone.

At Boca Raton Spine Center we take pride in our exceptional spine care and have a team of medical professionals. If your bone spurs are getting out of control call us today for an in-depth consultation. Call us today at 561-990-5499