Bone spurs, medically known as osteophytes, are bony outgrowths that form along the edges of bones, often where bones meet to form joints or where tendons and ligaments attach. These growths can develop in various parts of the body, including the spine, heels, shoulders, hips, and knees. While the term “spur” might suggest a sharp projection, bone spurs are usually smooth to the touch.
What is a Bone Spur?
Bone spurs develop along bone margins, often in response to prolonged friction, pressure, or stress. This formation is frequently associated with joint degeneration, like osteoarthritis, or the natural aging process. When cartilage, which cushions bone ends, wears away, the body attempts to repair the damaged area by creating new bone tissue. This adaptive repair mechanism can lead to bone spur formation.
Understanding Bone Spur Recurrence
Bone spurs can grow back after surgical removal if the underlying conditions that contributed to their formation are not addressed. Surgical removal, known as osteophytectomy, eliminates the existing bony outgrowth, but it does not inherently alter the biological environment that stimulated its growth. If factors such as inflammation, joint instability, repetitive stress, or degenerative joint disease remain, the body may continue to produce new bone. For instance, in osteoarthritis where cartilage degrades, the body’s attempt to stabilize the joint through new bone formation can lead to recurrence. Recurrence is not a certainty for every individual; rather, it depends on personal circumstances, the spur’s location, and how effectively the primary cause is managed.
Approaches to Managing Bone Spurs
Diagnosis of bone spurs typically involves X-rays, which can reveal their presence and size. Treatment is considered when bone spurs cause pain or interfere with joint function. Non-surgical management is often the first approach, including rest, ice to reduce swelling, over-the-counter pain relievers, and physical therapy to improve joint strength and flexibility. Corticosteroid injections can also alleviate pain and inflammation. Surgical removal is reserved for severe symptoms unresponsive to conservative treatments. However, surgery alone does not guarantee against recurrence if the underlying issues driving bone formation are not managed.
Preventing Bone Spur Formation
Preventing bone spur formation or recurrence involves addressing contributing factors. Maintaining a healthy weight helps reduce stress on joints, especially weight-bearing joints like hips and knees, while good posture distributes weight evenly, lessening stress on joints and the spine. Low-impact exercises, such as swimming or cycling, maintain joint mobility and strengthen surrounding muscles without excessive strain. Wearing supportive and properly fitted footwear protects feet and prevents bone spurs. Managing underlying medical conditions, such as arthritis, through medical care reduces inflammatory processes that can lead to bone spur development.