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A bone spur, also known as an osteophyte, is a growth that can occur on virtually any bone in the body, including the spinal vertebrae. Although the name implies it is a sharp structure, it's actually rather smooth and is simply a bit of raised bone, more of a bump than a spur. It is the body's protective response to friction or excess rubbing on that bone. In many cases, a bone spur does not cause any symptoms, and the person who has it may not even realize it's there. However, if a bone spur in the spine develops and grows large enough in the right area to push on a nearby nerve root or the spinal cord, significant symptoms can present themselves.
Bone Spur Symptoms
Symptoms of a bone spur depend on the area of the spine in which it is located. For example, a bone spur in the cervical spine or upper back will result in symptoms in the neck, upper back, and arms. Alternately, a bone spur in the lower back or lumbar spine will result in symptoms in the lower back, buttocks, legs, and the feet. The severity of symptoms can also vary depending on which nerve is compressed, the amount of pressure being put on it, and the length of time it has been irritated.
Symptoms generally include some combination of the following:
- Pain
- Pins and needles or tingling
- Numbness
- Weakness
- Muscle spasms
- Restricted movement/limited range of motion
To learn more about bone spur symptoms and the treatment options available for them, including endoscopic spine surgery, contact Laser Spine Institute. We offer a complimentary review of your MRI or CT scan to determine your eligibility for one of our procedures, and one of our spine doctors will be happy to discuss all your treatment options with you.