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What Causes Bone Spurs On The Spine?

To understand what the reason is behind the development of bone spurs on the spine, it is crucial to have knowledge about bone spur. A bone spur is a tiny projection developed by the body along the edges of the bone to offer support to the deteriorating spinal structure. Bone spur often occurs in the regions where different bones meet, especially in the joints.1

What Causes Bone Spurs On The Spine?

What Causes Bone Spurs On The Spine?

The important cause for the presence of bone spur on the spine is due to joint damage associated with osteoarthritis. It is impossible to detect the symptoms of bone spurs on the spine in the nascent stage, and people continue to participate in their regular activities with ease. However, at some point, they begin to experience the pain. Additionally, one may not feel the pain continuously, as it can come and go throughout the day. Fortunately, many do not require any treatment until the situation calls for one. Deciding on the therapy requires understanding about the cause of the occurrence of bone spurs on the spine, the location, and how it is affecting the health.

As osteoarthritis breaks the protective cartilage layer at the ends of the bones, the body attempts to fill the loss by creating the bone spurs in the damaged region.

It is difficult to point towards signs and symptoms caused by bone spurs on the spine. An individual may not realize that he or she possesses the illness until they undergo an x-ray. In certain situations, it is possible for the bone spur to cause loss of motion and excessive increase in pain.

Symptoms of Bone Spurs on the Spine

Symptoms of bone spur depend on the location. For example:

  • The occurrence of the bone spur in the spine can narrow the space containing the spinal cord. The presence of the bone spurs in this region is capable of pinching the spinal cord and the nerve roots, which develops weakness and numbness in legs and arms.
  • The presence of bone spur in the hip can be painful during the movement. One can also feel pain in the knee. Depending on the severity, it is possible for the individual to experience a decrease in the motion of the joint.

The presence of bone spur on the shoulder can cause wear and tear of the rotator cuff, which is a collective group of tendons and muscles that control the entire shoulder movement.

Tests and Diagnosis of Bone Spurs on the Spine

As it is difficult to notice the presence of bone spurs on the spine, the doctor would want to know more about the details before concluding. It is crucial to list out the symptoms, mention about medical information such as medications and supplements, family history related to bone and joint diseases, accidents, and other illnesses. You can also prepare a questionnaire that you wish to ask the doctor. These questions will be helpful in understanding about the situation, which will further help in taking care of the entire scenario.

Treatment for Bone Spurs on the Spine

It is crucial to seek immediate medical assistance when a person identifies pain or swelling caused by bone spurs on the spine. One can also look towards the emergency ward or treatment if they find it difficult in moving the spine. Addressing the issue in its early stage can reduce the pain or severity, making the bone spurs to grow at a less pace than expected that will provide the needed relief for the individual.

With appropriate action at the right time, avoiding the growth of bone spur on the spine is possible.

References:  

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Team PainAssist
Team PainAssist
Written, Edited or Reviewed By: Team PainAssist, Pain Assist Inc. This article does not provide medical advice. See disclaimer
Last Modified On:June 24, 2019

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