Spinal Bone Spurs

Spinal bone spurs, or osteophytes, develop as a bodily defense. When cartilage that protects the spinal column wears down due to age or activity, bone may scrape against bone, inducing the vertebrae to produce a buffer. Unfortunately, this bony growth does not take the place of cartilaginous discs. It also fills the surrounding space more fully and rigidly than cartilage would. While it may improve the immediate vertebral area, it creates an unhealthy environment for nerve tissue.

Bone spurs within the spinal column decrease the space needed for nerve roots to flex and lie flat when vertebrae move. This condition is called stenosis. When nerves are constricted, as in spinal stenosis, pain or numbness is felt in the area that they serve. Bone spurs in the cervical area may cause pain in the shoulders or arms or affect overall balance. Growth in the lumbar region can transfer pain to the hips and legs.

Complications from Spinal Bone Spurs

If spinal stenosis caused by bone spurs is allowed to progress, the patient will have acute pain. Depending on where the spurs are located, patients may fall or have trouble coordinating movement. Nerve compression can also lead to loss of bladder or bowel-control functions. In addition, as the excess bone wears, it may chip off and lodge interstitially.

These complications can lead to pain and restricted range of motion. Nerve damage can be avoided and flexibility restored by having bone spurs removed with arthroscopic surgery. The Bonati Institute is the leader in advanced proprietary techniques that are minimally invasive to the body and promote quick healing.