What is Bone Spurring?
Bone spurs are small projections of bone that are usually caused by other medical conditions. They can become extremely painful if they come in contact with neighboring nerves and bones. They can be treated with a combination of medication and physical therapy, although if the spurs are located in an area of the body with which they have no contact, they will cause no pain and the individual will often be unaware of their existence.
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What Causes Bone Spurs?
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Bone spurs usually result from another disease or condition. It is the body's attempt to generate new bone that is caused when bone damage is caused by osteoarthritis, diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis, spinal stenosis, plantar fasciitis or spondylosis. They can also occur as the result of aging, as the body attempts to strengthen weakened joints.
Symptoms
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Many people develop bone spurs without knowing it, as pain or inflammation often does not occur. It depends where on the body the spurs are located as to whether any discomfort occurs. Common trouble spots include the shoulder, neck, fingers, knee or spine. Symptoms can include pain, numbness, restricted movement, difficulty breathing or swallowing if occurring in the neck and a restriction of blood flow to the brain.
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Other Problems
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Complications from bone spurs can occur if they break away from the bone and become loose objects in the body. When this happens, they can become wedged in between bones, which can cause them to lock in place, which severely restricts movement. They can also embed themselves in the joint's lining.
Diagnosis
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Several tests are used to diagnose the presence of bone spurs. Electroconductive tests can indicate the severity of spinal injury. Computerized tomography, commonly known as a CT scan, can detect changes in the spinal column, and an X-ray will show whether there has been any detrimental changes caused by the bone spurs.
Treatment
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Bone spurs do not normally require surgery unless freedom of movement is severely restricted. Treatment options can include injection of anti-inflammatory drugs for four to six weeks, combined with rest. Physical therapy can then begin after one to two weeks, which can help restore strength and flexibility. Cortisone injections can also be effective, as they can reduce swelling in the joints and relieve pain.
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