Osteophytes are bony lumps (bone spurs) that grow on the bones of the spine or around the joints. They often form next to joints affected by osteoarthritis, a condition that causes joints to become painful and stiff. Osteophytes can grow from any bone, but they're most often found in
the: Osteophytes do not always cause symptoms. They can cause problems if they: For example, osteophytes in the: Osteophytes tend to form when the joints have been affected by arthritis. Osteoarthritis damages cartilage, the tough, white, flexible
tissue that lines the bones and allows the joints to move easily. Osteoarthritis is most common in the knees, hips, spine and small joints of the hands and base of the big toe. As the joints become increasingly damaged, new bone may form around the joints. These bony growths are called osteophytes. Osteophytes can also form in the spine as a result of ankylosing spondylitis, a type of arthritis that specifically affects the spine. When to seek medical adviceSee a GP if you have joint pain or stiffness, or if you have other symptoms in an area of your body, such as numbness or nerve pain. They'll investigate the underlying cause. A GP will ask you about your symptoms and may examine the affected area. They may test your joint movements and muscle strength. They'll also look at your medical history. You may be referred for an X-ray, which will highlight any arthritis in the joint and osteophytes. An MRI scan is better for examining torn ligaments or tendons. Treating osteophytesOsteophytes do not usually cause pain, but the associated arthritis might. If you're in pain, painkillers you can buy from a pharmacy or shop, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen, may help. Ibuprofen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), which can also help reduce any swelling and inflammation. If you're overweight, losing weight will help by relieving some of the strain on your joints. A physiotherapist may also be able to help you by recommending exercises that can strengthen the muscles surrounding the problem area, and by helping to improve your range of movement. Surgery can sometimes be used to help manage any underlying arthritis in the joint. It can be helpful for osteoarthritis that affects your hips, knees or joints, particularly those at the base of your thumb. Find out more about treating osteoarthritis There's usually no need to remove an osteophyte, unless it's irritating a nerve in the spine or restricting a joint's range of movement. If you do need surgery to remove an osteophyte, your surgeon will explain the procedure's risks and benefits. Page
last reviewed: 07 May 2019 OverviewBone spurs are bony projections that develop along bone edges. Bone spurs (osteophytes) often form where bones meet each other — in your joints. They can also form on the bones of your spine. The main cause of bone spurs is the joint damage associated with osteoarthritis. Most bone spurs cause no symptoms and can go undetected for years. They might not require treatment. If treatment is needed, it depends on where spurs are located and how they affect your health. SymptomsMost bone spurs cause no signs or symptoms. You might not realize you have bone spurs until an X-ray for another condition reveals the growths. In some cases, though, bone spurs can cause pain and loss of motion in your joints. Specific symptoms depend on where the bone spurs are. Examples include:
When to see a doctorMake an appointment with your doctor if you have pain or swelling in one or more joints or if you have difficulty moving a joint. CausesJoint damage from osteoarthritis is the most common cause of bone spurs. As osteoarthritis breaks down the cartilage cushioning the ends of your bones, your body attempts to repair the loss by creating bone spurs near the damaged area. Risk factorsThe risk of bone spurs is higher in people who have arthritis. Sept. 13, 2022
RelatedAssociated ProceduresProducts & ServicesWill a bone spur on top of foot go away?Unfortunately, bone spurs don't go away on their own.
Daily stretching and low-impact exercises. Dietary changes. Heat and ice therapy. Properly fitted shoes, shoe inserts, walking boots, or custom foot orthotics to alleviate pressure on your foot.
What is bone spur on top of foot called?Bone spurs, or osteophytes, are smooth, bony growths, usually near joints. They develop over time in patients with arthritis or joint damage. The feet, hands, knees and spine often develop bone spurs. A healthy lifestyle can delay symptoms like pain, stiffness and limited motion.
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