What causes bone spurs?

Bone spurs, also known as osteophytes, are bony growths or projections that develop on the edges of bones. They are often associated with osteoarthritis, a degenerative joint disease that causes the cartilage in your joints to break down.

Bone spurs can occur anywhere in the body, but they are most commonly found in the:

- Hands

- Feet

- Spine

- Knees

- Hips

The exact cause of bone spurs is unknown, but several factors can contribute to their development, including:

- Joint damage: Bone spurs often develop in response to damage to the cartilage in your joints. This can be caused by osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or other joint injuries.

- Genetics: Some people may be more likely to develop bone spurs due to their genes.

- Aging: Bone spurs are more common in older adults, as the cartilage in your joints naturally breaks down with age.

- Obesity: Excess weight can put extra stress on your joints and increase your risk of developing bone spurs.

Bone spurs do not always cause symptoms. In some cases, they can be seen or felt as small, hard lumps under the skin. If they press on nerves or other structures, they can cause pain, stiffness, swelling, or limited range of motion.

Treatment for bone spurs typically involves managing the underlying cause of the pain and discomfort. This may include:

- Resting the affected joint

- Taking over-the-counter pain relievers

- Applying ice or heat to the area

- Physical therapy to strengthen the muscles around the joint

- In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the bone spurs if they are causing severe pain or problems with joint function.