Extra Bony Growth: Bone Spur

Bone spur is nothing but just an extra bone growth on the normal bone. It is as such soft but can cause pain and wear and tear of the nearby ligaments.

They are basically formed along the joint and also in some special diseases like arthritis. The common sites of the bone spurs are foot, knee, spine, shoulder, hand and hip.

Causes

It is mainly formed when there is an extra pressure on the any bone and in response to it the body makes some extra bone.

It occurs in conditions like arthritis because the body tries to distribute the weight being exerted on the joints. As such bone spurs do not create any problem but they are signal for further problems.

Another reason for the formation of the bone spur could be due to the normal aging process. The soft tissues around the joints called cartilages breakdown as we grow old. It results in breaking of the cushions between the bones and spine. Further it leads to pain and swelling and in some cases formation of bone spur take place. Due to aging process the bone spurs are formed in the spine or feet. These two are the most common places.

Symptoms

Basically bone spurs show no symptoms. But the ones that disturb the bones and its tissues cause pain and swelling. In the foot, corns and calluses can also be formed due to bone spurs.

Diagnosis

When the condition becomes worse the patient goes to the doctor. The doctor confirms the case by doing an X-ray.

Treatment

If the bone is not disturbing you, no treatment is required but if it is then you would be suggested rest, some painkillers would be given and some ice packs and stretching exercises would be suggested. Sometimes the condition becomes so worse that surgery has to be performed to cut the bone spur.

Some simple home remedies can also be done. First of all you need to reduce the swelling. So put an ice pack on the area for 3 to 4 times in a day. If you have pain then hot packs are effective in reducing the pain. Alternative hot and cold baths are very effective in treating bone spurs.