Bone Spurs Topic Guide

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.

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 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 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.

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.