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Understanding Bone Spurs: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments

by Princeton Orthopaedic Associates

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Understanding Bone Spurs: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments

by Princeton Orthopaedic Associates

Understanding Bone Spurs

Have you ever experienced a sharp pain in your foot when taking your first steps in the morning or a nagging ache in your shoulder that won't go away? You might be dealing with a foot or shoulder bone spur. These small, bony growths can develop in various parts of the body, causing discomfort and limiting your mobility. 

What is a Bone Spur?

A bone spur, also known as osteophyte, is a bony projection that forms along the edges of bones. These growths typically develop where bones meet each other in the joints. While bone spurs are not necessarily painful, they can cause problems when they rub against nearby nerves or tissues.

What Causes Bone Spurs?

Bone spurs often develop in response to pressure, rubbing, or stress on a bone over time. 

Common causes include:

Understanding these common causes can help individuals take preventive measures and seek appropriate treatment if they experience symptoms of bone spurs.


Why you can trust us:

  • We have multiple specialists who treat these conditions every day.
  • Our orthopaedic doctors are specialized, which means you can see a doctor who works solely with the part of the body you are having issues with.
  • We have a whole-body health approach when it comes to orthopaedic health, and along with orthopaedic specialists, we have a team of physiatrists and physical therapists here to help you get back to the things you love.

Want to know more? Visit our website.


Areas of the Body Affected by Bone Spurs

A bone spur can form in various parts of the body, including:

What Does a Bone Spur Feel Like?

While your symptoms can vary depending on the location of the bone spur, common signs include the following:

  • Pain or tenderness in the affected area
  • Swelling or inflammation
  • Reduced range of motion
  • Numbness or tingling sensation
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Are you suffering from pain?

Please contact us! We'd love to help.

If you have pain, please contact us and schedule an appointment. We have urgent care facilities all over New Jersey for your convenience.

Diagnosing a Bone Spur

If you suspect you have a bone spur, it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional. Your doctor, typically an orthopedic surgeon, will perform a physical examination, ask questions, and may order diagnostic tests such as X-rays or MRI scans to confirm the diagnosis.

Bone Spur Treatment Options

Fortunately, there are several treatment options available for bone spurs, ranging from conservative measures to surgical intervention:

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  • Medication: Over-the-counter pain relievers may be recommended to help alleviate discomfort. OTC pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
  • Physical Therapy: Stretching and strengthening exercises are often recommended because they can improve flexibility and reduce symptoms.
  • Orthotics: With a foot bone spur, orthotics may be recommended. These custom shoe inserts help provide support and relieve pressure on the affected area.
  • Injections: Corticosteroid injections may be recommended to reduce the inflammation and help alleviate your pain.
  • Surgery: In more severe cases where conservative treatments are unsuccessful, it may be recommended to have surgical removal of the bone spur.

How to Dissolve Bone Spurs Naturally

While there's limited scientific evidence to support natural remedies for dissolving bone spurs, some people find relief through:

  • A healthy diet consisting of anti-inflammatory foods such as fruits, vegetables, as well as omega-3 fatty acids may help reduce inflammation.
  • Maintaining a healthy weight to lessen the added strain on your joints, potentially slowing the progression of bone spurs.
  • Some individuals report benefits from supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin, though results vary.

While there is limited scientific evidence that these techniques will dissolve bone spurs naturally, they are great lifestyle choices and will contribute to your overall well-being even if they don't.

Don't Live with Bone Spurs - Seek Help

Living with bone spurs can significantly impact your quality of life, but you don't have to suffer in silence. If you're experiencing persistent pain or discomfort, schedule an appointment with one of our specialists. They can thoroughly evaluate and recommend the most effective treatment plan to help you get back to doing what you love. Don't let bone spurs hold you back any longer!

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