Spinal Bone Spurs

Treatment of Spinal Bone Spurs

Bone spurs are highly common growths that can develop along a bone’s edge as you age. Although the bony projections themselves are not painful, they can affect nearby tissue and nerves leading to painful symptoms, especially when located on the spine.

Treatment of spinal bone spurs is available at Desert Institute for Spine Care in Arizona. Our spinal specialists can help you find relief from painful symptoms and restore your lifestyle. If you’d like to talk to one of our professionals about relief from spinal bone spurs, contact us or make an appointment today!

Schedule an Appointment

Spinal bone spurs

What Are Spinal Bone Spurs?

Bone spurs have a somewhat misleading name. These bony growths are actually smooth projections that stick out from normal bone and often occur with age. Also called osteophytes, bone spurs can grow anywhere throughout the body but are most often found in spinal structures. Spinal bone spurs typically grow along the edge of facet joints where vertebrae meet each other or on the bones of the spine. These bony growths can develop at any level of the spinal column — in the neck, middle back or lower back.

Not every spinal bone spur causes back pain. However, these projections can cramp the space of nearby structures, including spinal nerves and the spinal cord, leading to painful symptoms.

Schedule an Appointment

Patient Education Video

What Causes the Pain?

The facet joints are the bones that separate each of the spine’s vertebrae and provide your back with its wide range of motion. Osteophytes that form here are usually a result of inflammation caused by joint cartilage wearing down.

Within each vertebra are small openings just large enough to allow nerve roots to leave the spinal cord and go to other parts of the body. When bone spurs grow in these openings, they can press on the exiting nerve roots — a condition called foramen stenosis.

Schedule an Appointment

What Causes Spinal Bone Spurs?

A variety of factors, usually age-related, can contribute to bone spurs. Heredity, trauma caused by sports or accident-related injuries, nutrition, poor posture and structural problems that patients are born with can put people at risk of developing spinal bone spurs.

A number of common conditions make it more likely that spinal bone spurs will develop:

  • Spinal Arthritis: Spinal bone spurs often form as a result of chronic inflammation, which can develop within areas where cartilage has worn away due to spinal arthritis.
  • Osteoarthritis: This condition breaks down the cartilage that cushions the ends of bone. As your body attempts to repair this loss, it can create bone spurs near the damaged area.
  • Spinal Stenosis: This is a condition in which the opening of the spinal column become narrowed, leading to increased friction and inflammation that can cause bone spurs to form.
  • Aging: As the intervertebral discs wear with age and become thinner, the spine becomes more susceptible to bone spur formation.

 

What Are the Symptoms of Spinal Bone Spurs?

While spinal bone spurs may not be painful, they can put extra pressure on surrounding nerves, muscles and ligaments, resulting in uncomfortable symptoms.

Spinal bone spurs usually generate symptoms from the affected area in the cervical, thoracic or lumbar spine region. However, pain can also radiate to the extremities depending on the growth’s location.

Common symptoms associated with spinal bone spurs include:

  • Radiating pain to buttocks or shoulders
  • Dull pain, especially when standing or walking
  • Numbness
  • Burning or tingling, such as a pins and needles sensation in the hands or feet
  • Muscle spasms or cramps
  • Muscle weakness or wobbly joints
  • Limited flexibility or difficulty stretching limbs
  • Loss of coordination
  • Difficulties controlling bladder or bowels
Doctors Talking with Patients

See What Our Patients Are Saying!

Don’t just take our word for it. See what patients of DISC are saying about their experiences with our highly-skilled spine surgeons.

4.8
8,228 Reviews

Treatment Options for Spinal Bone Spurs in AZ

Nearly 40% of older adults experience spinal bone spur symptoms painful enough to warrant treatment. At DISC, our highly skilled orthopedic surgeons specialize in a wide range of treatment options that aim to reduce the inflammation and pain produced by spinal bone spurs. After ensuring an accurate diagnosis using our Personalized Pain Diagnostics (PPD), we usually start with a nonoperative range of treatment options, such as:

  • Specialized joint manipulation to reduce pressure on the nerves
  • Pain medication
  • Therapeutic injections

While some patients benefit from conservative treatment methods, if the bone spur is pressing on a nerve or interfering with your normal ability to function, spinal bone spur removal surgery may be necessary. The orthopedic surgeons at DISC in the Phoenix, AZ area are leaders in minimally invasive spine surgery techniques, including endoscopic spine surgery.

Schedule an Appointment

Man rubbing neck from pain
Dr Abrams explaining spine x-ray Dr. Abrams laughing

Find Doctors Who Treat Spinal Bone Spurs Doctors in AZ

If spinal bone spurs are causing debilitating symptoms, the specialists at DISC can help you find relief from pain so you can enjoy life again. Schedule your appointment with our world-class surgeons today.

ENJOY LIFE AGAIN!

Our spine health blog features up-to-date spine education and expert spine tips from our spine specialists here at DISC.

April 1, 2024

Possible Causes of Scoliosis

March 5, 2024

Sleeping Tips for People With Scoliosis

March 5, 2024

How to Tell if You Have Scoliosis

March 5, 2024

Does Rebounding Reduce Back Pain? Risks and Benefits

February 21, 2024

What Causes Herniated Discs?

Unveiling the Best Surgical Option for Herniated Discs — Microdiscectomy vs. Endoscopic Discectomy
December 27, 2023

Unveiling the Best Surgical Option for Herniated Discs — Microdiscectomy vs. Endoscopic Discectomy

Up to 80% of people will experience back pain at some point in their lives, and herniated discs are frequently the culprit. This problem can cause intense discomfort. Imagine a jelly-filled doughnut squishing out its filling, and you have a rudimentary idea of what’s happening.  Discs absorb shocks between the vertebrae in your spine. However, when […]

December 27, 2023

Lasers in Spine Surgery: Their Role in Endoscopic and Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery

Back pain and spinal conditions afflict a significant portion of the population, with nearly 40% of adults in the United States grappling with chronic back pain and related issues. Amidst this landscape, the allure of laser spine surgery has emerged as a potential remedy. This innovative instrument leveraging laser technology has been marketed as a miracle cure […]

Exercises to Treat Facet Syndrome
November 29, 2023

Exercises to Treat Facet Syndrome

Everything You Need To Know About Restless Leg Syndrome
October 18, 2023

Everything You Need To Know About Restless Leg Syndrome

Do you ever have trouble sleeping because your legs and feet feel itchy, tingly or cramped? You may be experiencing restless legs syndrome (RLS), a condition that affects up to 10% of people in the United States. RLS usually happens at night or when a person has to sit still for a long time.  Depending on its […]

6 Questions You May Have When Considering a Spine Second Opinion
September 7, 2023

6 Questions You May Have When Considering a Spine Second Opinion

Why should I get a second opinion on spine surgery? Does it make a difference in my outcome? Don’t all spine surgeons perform the same surgeries? The answers to these questions can vary widely depending on which surgeon or doctor you ask, but think about this: When you make major decisions about your life, like how to […]

8 Questions to Ask During a Spine Second Opinion
September 7, 2023

8 Questions to Ask During a Spine Second Opinion

If you’re considering getting a second opinion on your spinal condition, make sure to do your homework, research online and ask around to find the best spine surgeon. Remember that the goal of a second opinion is to clarify and determine if your diagnosis is accurate and the best treatment option — nonsurgical or surgical.  […]

A Guide to Awake Spine Surgery
September 7, 2023

A Guide to Awake Spine Surgery

Having surgery while awake can sound a little odd, but in the field of spine surgery, it’s been happening for a few decades now. This unique method of surgery offers some exceptional benefits, helping people enjoy less recovery time and supporting surgeons in more accurate, safer procedures. Let’s explore awake spine surgery and how to […]

Myelopathy: Causes, Diagnosis and Treatment
August 19, 2023

Myelopathy: Causes, Diagnosis and Treatment

Spinal injuries can wreak havoc on your life, impacting your organs, motor functions or senses. They must be handled with prompt medical attention to prevent lasting damage. Speak with your doctor if you notice any peculiar symptoms, such as those caused by myelopathy. Myelopathy is a common spinal cord condition that can limit a person’s […]

how technology can affect your spine
July 6, 2023

How Technology Use Can Affect Your Spine

Technology has revolutionized the way we work, communicate and entertain ourselves. However, the constant use of devices like computers, tablets and smartphones has led to a rise in health issues related to poor posture and spinal issues. Prolonged sitting, hunching over devices and carrying heavy bags can all contribute to muscle strain, neck pain, back pain and […]

Dr. Wang explaining spine condition to patient
November 10, 2022

How to Prepare for a Consultation With Your Spine Doctor

Preparing for a spine doctor consultation helps you communicate with your care provider and helps your provider determine the most effective treatment plan. You can prepare for a consultation by gathering essential information, creating a list of important questions, understanding your medical history, and asking a supportive individual to accompany you to your appointment.

May 20, 2022

9 Treatment Options for Spinal Stenosis

Spinal stenosis is when the spaces within the spinal column narrow, leading to spinal nerve and cord compression. While stenosis can develop anywhere within the spinal column, it is most common in the lumbar spine in the lower back and the cervical spine in the neck.

Doctor Consulting a patient
November 5, 2021

Can a Chiropractor Help With Back Pain?

Several types of specialists can address back pain concerns and alleviate symptoms. Back pain has dozens of possible causes, which may be linked to trauma, aging or separate conditions. Many of those who suffer from back pain find chiropractic care beneficial. As a licensed health care professional, a chiropractor can help with back pain. In some cases, chiropractic care is not enough — a patient might need to see a spine specialist instead. It’s essential to know when to see a chiropractor for back pain and when to see a spine specialist.

man with spine pain
October 15, 2021

Understanding the Parts of Your Spine

By Mark Wang, M.D. The spine is an important part of the body that provides support and allows for proper mobility. The spinal column is the supportive core of our bodies, while the spinal cord bridges the brain with the rest of the body. Many people may only notice or pay attention to the spine unless there is an issue or pain. Understanding the spinal column and spinal cord anatomy can help you protect yourself from potential injuries. Additionally, understanding the parts of the spine can also help you understand where pain or discomfort may be originating from. How the Spine Works: Three Main Functions The spine is one of the most essential structures of the body, allowing us to stand, walk and keep ourselves upright. First and foremost, the spine provides your body with proper support. The support of the spine is essential to various bodily movements and functions, such as standing and walking. Additionally, your spine allows for flexible movements, such as bending and twisting. Another function of the spine is that it protects the delicate spinal cord from potential damage. The spinal cord is a collection of nerves that connect the brain to the rest of the body, allowing for various movements and processes. The spinal cord helps the body and internal organs function properly. A healthy spine is a key aspect of leading a healthy lifestyle.

September 29, 2021

What is Endoscopic Spine Surgery?

By Dr. Nima Salari In this video, Dr. Nima Salari describes endoscopic spine surgery, its benefits, and why patients prefer these types of surgical procedures. Endoscopic spine surgery is the least invasive surgery category made up of endoscopic discectomy, endoscopic rhizotomy, and endoscopic foraminoplasty. Each of these procedures is performed through a 1/4 inch incision with an HD endoscope and attached camera. The surgeries can be achieved with the patient under conscious sedation.

March 6, 2020

7 DOs and DON’Ts After Spine Surgery

Having surgery is a major step for any patient. Even with the shortest and simplest of surgeries, patients should follow instructions as discussed with their surgeon. This is a time to focus on healing and completing the plan set out with your care provider.