Bone spurs, medically known as osteophytes, are smooth, bony projections that develop along the edges of bones. They are a common biological response to joint stress and degeneration, frequently occurring where bones meet to form a joint. Osteophytes are often associated with the natural aging process and wear and tear. Many people have bone spurs without symptoms, but they become problematic when they interfere with surrounding tissues.
How Bone Spurs Form in the Shoulder
Shoulder bone spurs develop primarily as a reaction to chronic joint damage, often linked to osteoarthritis. This degenerative process causes the protective cartilage cushioning the ends of the bones to wear down over time. As the joint space narrows and bones rub together, the body attempts to stabilize the joint by growing new bone tissue along the margins.
In the shoulder, spurs commonly form in the glenohumeral joint (the main ball-and-socket joint) or the acromioclavicular joint (where the collarbone meets the shoulder blade). While these growths are the body’s attempt at self-repair, they can lead to pain and mechanical issues. Repetitive motions, especially those involving overhead arm use, can accelerate this wear-and-tear cycle.
Specific Symptoms of Shoulder Bone Spurs
Symptoms typically arise when the bony growth presses on or rubs against nearby soft tissues, such as tendons, ligaments, or nerves. This interference often results in a persistent, dull ache that worsens with movement, especially when attempting to lift the arm. The pain may also become sharp during specific motions, such as reaching overhead or behind the back.
A primary symptom is restricted range of motion, which is a progressive limitation in the arm’s ability to move freely. When a spur forms beneath the acromion, it can narrow the space where the rotator cuff tendons pass, causing impingement. This mechanical pinching causes pain when the arm is raised, making activities like dressing or reaching difficult.
Patients may also report mechanical sensations, such as grinding, clicking, or catching within the shoulder joint during movement. This indicates the spur is physically disrupting the smooth gliding motion of the joint or surrounding tendons. Over time, individuals may develop secondary weakness in the shoulder muscles due to pain avoidance. In severe cases, constant friction from the spur can lead to fraying or tearing of the rotator cuff tendons.
Confirming the Diagnosis
Confirming the presence of a shoulder bone spur begins with a thorough physical examination by a healthcare provider. The doctor assesses the shoulder’s range of motion, tests muscle strength, and identifies specific movements that trigger pain or mechanical symptoms. This clinical evaluation helps determine the location of the pain and the degree of functional limitation.
Imaging tests are then used to visualize the bony structures of the shoulder. X-rays are typically sufficient to clearly identify and locate the osteophytes, as they provide detailed images of the bone tissue. If soft tissue damage, such as a rotator cuff tear, is suspected, a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) or Computed Tomography (CT) scan may be ordered. These advanced imaging techniques help evaluate surrounding tendons, ligaments, and cartilage for a complete treatment plan.
Treatment Paths for Shoulder Bone Spurs
Initial management focuses on conservative strategies aimed at reducing inflammation and pain. A common first step involves using non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to manage discomfort and swelling. Corticosteroid injections may also be administered directly into the affected area to provide targeted, temporary relief from inflammation.
Physical therapy is a fundamental component of treatment, focusing on exercises designed to improve the flexibility and strength of the shoulder muscles without aggravating the spur. The goal is to restore normal function and reduce strain on the joint. If conservative methods fail and pain remains debilitating, surgical intervention may be considered. This typically involves an arthroscopic procedure to remove the offending osteophyte, often called subacromial decompression, creating more space for the tendons.