Bone Spurs (cont.)
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.
- 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.
Last Editorial Review: 3/13/2009
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