In this Article

• What is a bone spur?
• What causes bone spurs?
• Where do bone spurs occur?
• What are symptoms of bone spurs?
• How are bone spurs diagnosed?
• How are bone spurs treated?
• Bone Spurs At A Glance
• Bone Spurs Glossary
• Bone Spurs Index

How are bone spurs treated?

Bone spurs are treated only if they are causing symptoms. Initial treatment is directed toward decreasing inflammation and avoiding re-injury when possible. Local cold application can help when the location of the bone spur is accessible. Antiinflammatory medications, administered both orally and by local injection (Kenalog, Depomedrol, Celestone), are commonly used, depending on the location of the spur. Local mechanical measures, such as orthotics, or shoe inserts, and local bone spur pads might be considered, depending on the location of the bone spur. Bone spurs that are causing irritation of nerves and are resistant to conservative measures can require surgical operations for treatment.

Bone Spurs At A Glance

• A bone spur is a tiny pointed outgrowth of bone.
• Bone spurs are usually caused by local inflammation, such as from degenerative arthritis or tendonitis.
• Bone spurs develop in areas of inflammation or injury of nearby cartilage or tendons.
• Bone spurs may or may not cause symptoms. When they do cause symptoms, the symptoms depend on their location.
• Bone spurs can be associated with pain, numbness, tenderness, and weakness if they are irritating adjacent tissues.
• Bone spurs are detected by radiologic testing, such as with plain X-rays, ultrasound imaging, MRI scan, CT scan, and myelograms.
• Bone spurs are treated only if they are causing symptoms. Initial treatment is directed toward decreasing inflammation and avoiding re-injury when possible.

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