What Are the Treatments for Bone Spurs in the Cervical Spine?

Bone spurs (also called osteophytes) are smooth, bony growths that develop over a long time. Bone spurs in the cervical spine (and other areas of the spine) are part of the normal aging process and only require treatment if they protrude onto the spinal cord or nerves and cause pain or other symptoms.

Rest

• Because activity can cause inflammation and pain, the first treatment for bone spurs in the cervical spine may be rest.

Medications

• To relieve pain, reduce swelling and relax muscles, your doctor may prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs or muscle relaxants for four to six weeks.

Physical Therapy

• Physical therapy (including neck exercises) and joint manipulation can help improve flexibility, strength and posture and also reduce the pressure on the nerves.

Cortisone

• Although the effects are temporary, a cortisone shot (epidural steroid injection) may help reduce joint swelling and pain. These injections are often the last resort before surgery.

Surgery

• If conservative treatments do not work, your doctor may recommend surgery to remove the bone spurs.