Bone spur is an extra bone that grows on the normal bone. In medical jargon bone spur is known as osteophytes. It occurs on the joints especially on the joints of the spine, feet, shoulders, hips, hands and knees. Bone spur itself does not cause any pain but it can cause pain when it rubs against other bones and nerves around it. Bone spur is quite common among people above 60 years of age and is an indication of spine degeneration.
The most common cause of heel pain is plantar fascitis which is commonly referred to as a Heel Bone Spur. Plantar fascia is a broad band of fibrous tissue which runs along the bottom surface of the foot, from the heel to the toes Click here to view diagram . Plantar fascitis is a condition in which the plantar fascia is inflamed. This condition can be very painful and cause considerable amount of suffering .
Bone spurs are bony projections that form along joints. They are often seen in conditions such as arthritis. Bone spurs are largely responsible for limitations in joint motion and can cause pain. Bone spurs themselves rub against nearby nerves and bones and cause pain. Bone spurs are often called osteophytes.
Causes
As we age, the discs in our spine naturally degenerate and lose some of their natural shock-absorbing ability. Factors that contribute to and accelerate this process include stress, injury, poor posture, poor nutrition, and family history.
Heel spurs and heel pain typically occur in people with flat feet. As the arch starts to collapse, the band of ligament and the muscle in the bottom of the foot absorbs the impact of pressure from standing or walking. Eventually, it stretches beyond its limits, leading to possible muscle tears and bone spurs. To avoid heel pain, people with flat feet should make a special effort to wear support shoes with arch support.
It is not uncommon for people with osteoarthritis to get bone spurs. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative condition in which joint cartilage begins to wear down, causing bone to rub against bone. As a result, the body may begin to produce new bone to protect against this, which is how a bone spur forms.
Location determines other symptoms
In your knee, bone spurs may make it painful to extend and bend your leg. Bone spurs can get in the way of bones and tendons that keep your knee operating smoothly.
On your spine, bone spurs can push against your nerves, or even your spinal cord, causing pain and numbness elsewhere in your body.
On your neck, cervical bone spurs can protrude inward, occasionally making it difficult to swallow or painful to breathe. Bone spurs can also push against veins, restricting blood flow to your brain.
The goal when treating bone spurs is to minimize pain and prevent any additional joint damage. Treatment methods may include weight loss, stretching and physical therapy, rest and ice. Injections can reduce inflammation long enough to relieve symptoms. Medications such as ibuprofen or injections may be administered for pain. Bone spurs can be surgically removed in the case of serious damage and deformity.
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