Bone spurs are one of those surprising discoveries that can leave you wondering, “Is this something I need to worry about?” You might have had an X-ray or MRI for another reason, only to find out you have these little bony outgrowths. 

In today’s post, we’re taking a closer look at bone spurs. We’ll explore what they are, why they sometimes go unnoticed, and the scenarios in which they might become a problem. Whether you’ve recently been diagnosed or are simply curious about these common skeletal changes, read on for a look into the world of bone spurs.

What Are Bone Spurs?

Bone spurs, also known as osteophytes, are bony projections that develop along the edges of bones. They commonly form in joints such as the hands, knees and spine, often as a natural response to joint wear and tear. 

While the term “bone spur” might sound concerning, these growths are frequently found incidentally during imaging studies. As the Mayo Clinic explains, they rarely cause any symptoms, and many people experience no pain at all. (You can check out the Mayo Clinic’s article for an in-depth understanding of these boney projections).

Why Don’t All Bone Spurs Cause Pain?

There are a few reasons why a bone spur might not bother you:

  • Location, Location, Location: Bone spurs can form almost anywhere in the body. If a bone spur forms in a part of the body where it isn’t rubbing against nerves, tendons or other bones, it might never cause you any discomfort.
  • Size: As a general rule of thumb, smaller bone spurs are less likely to interfere with surrounding tissues and, therefore, less likely to cause significant issues.
  • Individual Differences: Everyone experiences pain differently. Some people might not notice a spur at all, while others with underlying conditions like arthritis might be more sensitive to the changes.

While these factors often keep bone spurs silent, there are times when they can tip over into causing discomfort. Let’s now explore when they might start to become a problem.

When Can Bone Spurs Become a Problem?

Even though many bone spurs are harmless, there are times when they can lead to issues:

  • Nerve Compression: When a bone spur presses on a nerve, you might notice tingling, numbness or even a weakness in the area.
  • Restricted Movement: Sometimes, a spur can limit how much a joint moves, leading to stiffness or sharp pain with certain movements.
  • Local Irritation: In some cases, the irritation from a bone spur can cause swelling and inflammation around the joint.

For more insights into how these symptoms develop, the Princeton Orthopedic Associates offers a great resource that explains when and why bone spurs might start to cause problems.

What Should You Do If You’re Concerned?

If you’re experiencing unexplained joint pain or suspect a bone spur might be contributing to your discomfort, it’s a good idea to talk to a healthcare professional. Whether it’s your doctor or a chiropractor, getting a proper diagnosis is the first step. 

They can advise you on a range of treatment options — from physical therapy and pain management to, in more severe cases, surgical interventions. It’s good to know that treatment typically focuses on managing symptoms rather than removing the spur itself.

Final Thoughts

Bone spurs are more common than you might think, and while they often cause no harm, understanding their nature can help you decide when to seek medical advice. By considering factors like location, size and individual pain thresholds you can better appreciate why these bony outgrowths are usually nothing to worry about.

Stay informed, take care of your joints, and if you have any questions or concerns, feel free to reach out. Happy reading, and here’s to healthy joints!