Bone Spur

Extended Definition

Bone spurs, medically known as osteophytes, are bony projections that form along bone edges, typically where bones meet in joints. Despite the name “spur,” these growths are usually smooth rather than sharp. They develop as the body’s response to joint damage and instability caused by osteoarthritis.

As cartilage breaks down in an arthritic joint, the body attempts to repair the damage and stabilize the joint by growing extra bone. While this seems like a helpful response, bone spurs can actually contribute to joint problems. They may limit range of motion, cause pain when they press on nerves or other tissues, and contribute to the feeling of stiffness in affected joints. In some cases, bone spurs can break off and become loose bodies that float in the joint space, causing additional pain and mechanical symptoms like catching or locking.

Bone spurs are often visible on X-rays and are one of the hallmark signs doctors look for when diagnosing osteoarthritis. Not all bone spurs cause symptoms—many people have them without knowing it. Treatment focuses on managing the underlying arthritis rather than the spurs themselves, though in some cases, bone spurs can be removed surgically if they’re causing significant problems.