Bone Spurs: A New Way to Treat Chronic Pain

Introduction

Bone spurs are a common condition that can cause chronic pain and discomfort. They are small bony growths that can form on the edges of bones, especially in the spine, feet, and shoulders. Bone spurs can cause pain when they press against other bones, ligaments, or tendons, or when they rub against nearby nerves. While bone spurs may be a source of pain for some people, they can also be treated in a variety of ways. In this article, we will explore the various treatments for bone spurs and discuss how they can be used to help relieve chronic pain.

What Causes Bone Spurs?

Bone spurs are caused by the body’s response to stress or injury. Over time, the body can form extra bone in areas where it has been injured or where there is a lot of stress on the bone. This extra bone is known as a bone spur. Bone spurs can form on any bone in the body, but they are most often found in the spine, feet, and shoulders.

How Are Bone Spurs Treated?

The first step in treating bone spurs is to identify the source of the pain. If the pain is caused by the bone spur pressing against a nerve or other structure, then the doctor may recommend surgery to remove the spur. However, if the bone spur is not pressing on any nerves or other structures, then other treatments may be recommended.

Non-Surgical Treatments for Bone Spurs

Non-surgical treatments for bone spurs may include physical therapy, medications, and lifestyle changes. Physical therapy can help to reduce pain and increase mobility in the affected area. Medications such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and corticosteroids can help to reduce inflammation and pain. Lifestyle changes such as losing weight, avoiding activities that put strain on the affected area, and using proper posture can also help to reduce pain and discomfort from bone spurs.

Surgical Treatments for Bone Spurs

If non-surgical treatments do not provide relief from pain, then surgery may be recommended. The type of surgery performed will depend on the location of the bone spur and the severity of the pain. Common surgical treatments for bone spurs include arthroscopic surgery, bone spur removal, and joint fusion.

Arthroscopic Surgery

Arthroscopic surgery is a minimally invasive procedure that can be used to remove bone spurs from the shoulder, knee, or elbow. During this procedure, a small camera is inserted into the joint and the surgeon is able to view the joint on a monitor. The surgeon can then use small instruments to remove the bone spur.

Bone Spur Removal

Bone spur removal is a more invasive procedure that involves making an incision on the skin and removing the bone spur. This procedure is usually used to treat bone spurs on the spine, feet, or shoulders.

Joint Fusion

Joint fusion is a surgical procedure that involves permanently joining two bones together. This procedure is usually used to treat bone spurs on the spine or feet.

Conclusion

Bone spurs can be a source of chronic pain and discomfort, but they can be treated in a variety of ways. Non-surgical treatments such as physical therapy, medications, and lifestyle changes can help to reduce pain and increase mobility. If these treatments are not effective, then surgery may be recommended. Surgery may involve arthroscopic surgery, bone spur removal, or joint fusion. With proper treatment, bone spurs can be managed and chronic pain can be relieved.