bone spurs of the spine

What are Bone Spurs?

A bone spur, also know as osteophyte, is a projection of a bone (bony projection) that develops and grows along the edge of joints.  They are fairly common in people over the age of 60.  It is not the bone spur itself that is the real problem, but the pain and inflammation which begins to occur when the bone spurs rub against nerves and bones.

Bone Spurs of the Spine

Bone spurs can affect several parts of the body. However, the most common parts affected are the neck (cervical spine), low back (lumbar spine), shoulder, hip, knee, and heel. There are a number of common spinal conditions related to the development of a spinal bone spur such as osteoarthritis, cervical radiculopathy, lumbar radiculopathy, and spinal stenosis.

Book an Appointment

Spinal Bone Spurs Treatment

Our specialists at Spine & Orthopedic Center offer careful diagnosis and treatment options for spinal bone spurs. Schedule a visit at any of our offices in Boca Raton, Deerfield Beach, Coral Springs and Plantation.
Book an Appointment

Bone Spur Causes

As we age, the discs in our spine naturally degenerate and lose some of their natural shock-absorbing (defensive) ability.  Common factors that contribute to this process include stress, injury, poor posture, poor nutrition, and family history.

It is not uncommon for people with osteoarthritis to get a bone spur. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative condition in which joint cartilage begins to wear down, causing bone to rub against bone. As a result, the body may begin to produce new bone to protect against this, which is how a bone spur forms.

Symptoms of Bone Spurs

  • Back and neck pain
  • Pain radiating through an arm and/or leg
  • Prominent lumps on the hands, feet or spine
  • Numbness
  • Burning
  • Muscle cramps