What Are Osteophytes?

I have diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis and was recently told I have more exuberant osteophyte formation. What is this, and how is it treated?

In persons with diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH), there is a tendency to develop inflammation at the insertion points of tendons and ligaments into bone. This inflammation can lead to the formation of "new bone" at these insertions. The new bony prominences are referred to as osteophytes. The treatment of DISH is directed at minimizing inflammation, often with antiinflammatory medications.

For more information, please see MedicineNet.com's diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis article.