Bone spurs, also referred to as osteophytes, is a condition in which small, smooth projections appear on the bones. It usually happens at the location where two bones form a joint. The formation of these smooth extensions is common after 60 years of age. But younger people may also suffer from this condition. Osteoarthritis is a risk factor for bone spurs. This article sheds light on some of its causes, symptoms, and treatment options.

What are bone spurs?
Bone spurs are smooth and bony lumps extending out of the bones. They develop over a period and can grow from any bone. However, the common places of formation are fingers or hands, knee, hip, and spine.

Symptoms
A few common symptoms of bone spurs are listed below:

• Grinding sensation in the joints: This is caused by osteophytes rubbing against the bones.
• Bumpy or knobby segments: These appear particularly in the toes and fingers. They are caused by bone spurs projecting outwards.
• Stiffness: An individual may experience stiffness when the bone spurs compress the nerves or rub against other bones.
• Tendon tears: The bone spurs can grow into the surrounding tissues or cause the muscles and tendons to rub against each other. Gradually, this can lead to the breakdown of the tissues, resulting in tearing.
• Tendonitis: A bone spur located where the heel bone connects the Achilles tendon can irritate this fibrous connective tissue and result in inflammation. This is called insertional Achilles tendonitis.
• Numbness and weakness: This happens specifically in the legs if there are spurs in the spine. This is because the osteophytes narrow down the spinal cord space and pinch the nerve roots.
• Reduced motion and movement: The range of motion of the affected joints is restricted due to the hindrance caused by the bone spurs. The severity of the condition depends on the location of the osteophytes.
• Pain near the affected joint: The condition becomes painful when the bone spurs start pressing against surrounding nerves.

Causes
One of the biggest and most common causes of spurs is osteoarthritis (OA). In this condition, the cartilage starts to break down. During the process of cartilage repair, new bone materials are created. These may form bony growths or extensions called spurs.

Another factor responsible for this condition is ankylosing spondylitis, a rare form of arthritis that causes spinal inflammation. In addition, the inflammation stimulates the deposition of bone materials in this area for repair, which may result in bone spurs forming.

Some of the other common causes are mentioned below:

• Age: Wear and tear of the joints over the years can lead to inflammation. This, in turn, causes bone material deposition for repair, which may result in bone spur formation.
• Genes: A person’s genetic predisposition to degenerative diseases can cause bone spurs. The body’s calcium absorption ability is also controlled by genes, which may raise the risk of osteophytes.
• Congenital bone disease: Bone diseases like osteoporosis and osteoarthritis can result in bone spur formation.
• Spine narrowing: Spine narrowing compresses the nerve roots, which results in inflammation and bone spur formation.
• Overuse of joints: Excessive use leads to wear and tear damage or injuries. This can cause bone spur formation.

X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, and electroconductive tests can help diagnose the condition.

Treatment and home remedies
The home remedies mentioned below should be followed only after consulting a healthcare provider or specialist. Some at-home treatment methods are as follows:

• Putting ice on the area: Applying ice to muscles can constrict the blood vessels of that region, resulting in decreased blood flow. This can reduce swelling, inflammation, and pain.
• Using shoe inserts or supportive shoes: If the bone spur is on heels, then footwear with an extra cushioned insole can prevent pain. Tight shoes can constrict the tendons and damage the bones in the feet.

The other options that healthcare providers may suggest are mentioned below:

• Physical therapy: It includes stretches and exercises to reduce pain, improve and boost movement, and strengthen the muscles surrounding the joints.
• Surgery: Surgery is done to remove the bone spurs. It is only considered a last resort when other treatment methods fail.

Bone spurs do not always cause any painful effects or signs; in that case, they do not require any treatment. But sometimes, they may drastically affect one’s quality of life. For example, suppose the person cannot tolerate and control the pain and other effects. In that case, consulting a specialist is the best option, as they may suggest additional strategies.