Bone Spur: Causes & Symptoms

by Vanya Sharma last updated - Medically reviewed by Dr. Brent Wells

Bone spurs or osteophytes are extra bones that appear as a raised projection. They are due to continuous pressure on the bones, but they can also develop through normal wear and tear. Bone spur usually occurs in the joints, hips, feet, spine, shoulders, knees and/or hands.

A person suffering from this condition experiences severe agony that’s centralized in the affected region and accompanied by inflexibility or stiffness. The pain and stiffness occur because the free movement of the joint is obstructed in some way.

Usually, bone spurs leave the person virtually immobile. Being educated, prepared, and cautious can help to prevent the future occurrence of bone spurs.

Causes of Bone Spur

Bone spurs may arise for several reasons, most of which are perfectly natural and treatable with the right technique. In general, bone spurs develop because of one or more of the following: [1]

  • Aging
  • Change in the calcium regime of the body
  • Tissue degeneration
  • General wear, and tear
  • Physiological changes
  • Obesity
  • Applying continuous pressure
  • Excessive use of joints as in jogging, strenuous exercise, running, dancing or sports
X-Ray of a foot from two different angles.

An X-Ray allows us to see the bones in detail. Photo Credit: Shutterstock

There are some underlying factors that contribute to the development of bone spurs and you need to be aware of those as well.

The tearing of cartilage, the gradual softening of tendons and the slow weakening of muscles play a big part. As such, preventative measures will help you avoid bone spurs even as you age.

Symptoms of Bone Spur

One can easily make out the presence of bone spur in the body. Not only are most bone spurs accompanied by severe pain but some are actually visible from beneath the skin due to extreme swelling. Some of the most common symptoms are summed up below:

  • Sharp or smooth projection beneath the skin
  • Restricted movement along the joints
  • Noticeable swelling
  • Severe pain
  • Numbness
  • Calluses and corns

These typically occur on the foot due to excessive tissue damage.

Note: The most common bone spur patients are people who suffer from arthritis.

Home remedies can help you live a healthy life without over-the-counter or prescription medications. However, if the problem persists, consult a doctor or chiropractor immediately. A growing, untreated bone spur can damage the surrounding nerves.

 

This article is medically reviewed by Dr. Brent Wells, who is an Anchorage and Juneau Chiropractor. [2]

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About the Author

Vanya Sharma is a writer at heart with interests in the health and nutrition domain and has experience in content creation, collaboration, and content strategy. Vanya has completed the “Introduction to Food and Health” certificate program from Stanford University, US. She aims to bring unbiased and helpful information to all those seeking to make their health and lifestyle a priority.

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