Doctor's Notes on Bone Spurs
A bone spur, medically known as an osteophyte, is a small, pointed outgrowth of bone. Bone spurs are usually caused by inflammation in the area, such as from degenerative arthritis, or osteoarthritis, or tendinitis. The presence of inflammation causes bone-forming cells to deposit bone in this area, eventually leading to a bony prominence (spur). Bone spurs are common around the heel bone and around the spine, but they can occur anywhere.
Bone spurs may or may not cause symptoms. If they do cause symptoms, the associated symptoms and signs depend on the exact location of the bone spur. Symptoms can include pain, numbness, and tenderness of the affected area. Spurs in the heel may cause swelling and pain of the foot as well as problems with walking and weight-bearing.
Rheumatoid Arthritis : What is Rheumatoid Arthritis? Quiz
QuestionThe term arthritis refers to stiffness in the joints.
See AnswerMust Read Articles:
-
Ankylosing Spondylitis, Rheumatologic Perspective
Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a type of arthritis that involves the spine and pelvic joints that affects mostly young men. Medications don't cure AS, but can manage pain. Surgery is occasionally indicate. -
AS, Orthopedic Perspective
Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a chronic inflammation of the joints where the spine and pelvis fit together. This form of arthritis is most common among people with northern European ancestry under 40 years old. The specific cause is unknown, but the symptoms include low back pain. Medication can ease symptoms, and sometimes surgery in indicated. -
Heel Spurs
Heel spurs are pointed bony outgrowths on the calcaneus bone. Tenderness on the back of the heel is the main symptom. Treatment may involve using orthotics, taking anti-inflammatory medications, applying ice to the area, cortisone injections, or physical therapy. -
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is not a single disease but a culmination of problems that leads to skeletal joint failure. Symptoms include aching, stiffness, and bone enlargement. Diet, exercise, pain medication, and sometimes surgery treat osteoarthritis. -
Plantar Fasciitis
Inflammation of the plantar fascia (fibrous connective tissue on the bottom of the foot) is referred to as plantar fasciitis. Causes of plantar fasciitis may include injury, arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis. Symptoms include sharp, severe foot and heel pain, difficulty bearing weight on the foot, difficulty walking especially in the morning, and swelling. Plantar fasciitis treatment may involve orthotics, cortisone injections, physical therapy, or medication. Some home remedies may offer relief.
REFERENCE:
Kasper, D.L., et al., eds. Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine, 19th Ed. United States: McGraw-Hill Education, 2015.