A spinal bone spur, or osteophyte, only causes symptoms if the bony growth comes into contact with the spinal cord or an adjacent nerve root. Bone spurs are produced by the body in response to a reduction of stability, and/or an increase in friction, within a joint. The joints of the spine are subjected to a great deal of stress and, along with the intervertebral discs, begin to deteriorate over time. As these anatomical components wear down, bone spurs can grow along the edges of vertebrae or within passageways intended to allow space for nerve roots to exit the spinal canal. Unless nerve compression occurs, an osteophyte might remain undetected indefinitely.
Where Bone Spur Symptoms Occur in the Spine
Bone spurs are most common within the lumbar (lower back) region of the spine. This is because the lower spine supports much of the body's weight and is subjected to stress-inducing bending, flexion, and twisting. The cervical (neck) region also is susceptible to bone spur development because it bears the weight of the head and, like the lower back, is extremely mobile.
The area of the body to experience symptoms will depend on the location of the nerve compression. For example, nerve compression in the neck might produce symptoms in the shoulders, upper back, arms, and hands. In the lumbar region, nerve compression might produce symptoms in the lower back, buttocks, legs, and feet.
Symptoms that might be produced include:
A dull ache or sharp, localized pain at the site of the nerve compression.
Pain that radiates along the length of the nerve into the extremities.
Tingling in the areas of the body innervated by the affected nerve.
Numbness or complete loss of sensation in the areas of the body innervated by the affected nerve.
Weakness, cramping, and/or spasms in the muscle group or groups innervated by the affected nerve.
Bowel or bladder problems if nerve compression affects the cauda equina, which is a bundle of nerves that extends off the bottom of the spinal cord. This can indicate a severe, even life-threatening, condition and medical treatment should be sought immediately.
Treatment Options
With the exception of serious bowel or bladder issues, most of the symptoms associated with nerve compression caused by a bone spur can be managed non-surgically. Commonly used conservative methods of treatment include pain medication, physical therapy, exercise, stretching, and corticosteroid injections.
In Conclusion
Bone spurs are common in the spine, but several other areas of the body are susceptible to bone spur formation, too, including the feet, shoulders, hands, hips, and knees. Pain is a common denominator in any of these types of bone spurs, but the type of pain varies depending on the bone spur's location.
For instance, a bone spur on the back of the heel - often caused by ill-fitting shoes or excessive running - can develop painful symptoms that grow worse over time. It may begin with pain and a bump on the back of the heel that feels tender. The bump might feel warm to the touch, too. The pain may be at its worst when you get up after resting for a while. Eventually, the heel spur will hurt too much to wear normal shoes.
If you think you have a bone spur in the spine or another area of your body, make sure to see your primary care physician to receive a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Failing to see your doctor - or trying at-home treatments without a proper diagnosis - could make your condition worse.
