7 Common Bone Spur Symptoms You Should Never Ignore

Bone spurs, medically known as osteophytes, are smooth, bony growths that form along the edges of bones, typically near joints. While many people with bone spurs experience no symptoms at all, these bony projections can cause significant discomfort when they rub against nearby bones, nerves, or soft tissues. Understanding the symptoms of bone spurs is crucial for early detection and management of this common condition.

Bone spurs often develop as a natural part of aging, but they can also result from joint damage caused by osteoarthritis or other degenerative conditions. They commonly occur in the spine, shoulders, hands, hips, knees, and feet. This article explores the key symptoms that may indicate the presence of bone spurs and helps you understand when medical attention may be necessary.

1. Joint Pain and Tenderness

One of the most prevalent symptoms of bone spurs is persistent pain in the affected joint. This pain typically occurs when the bone spur presses against surrounding structures or when it causes friction during movement.

The pain associated with bone spurs can vary in intensity from mild discomfort to severe, debilitating pain. It often worsens with activity and may improve with rest. For example, bone spurs in the knee might cause pain when walking or climbing stairs, while those in the shoulder may hurt during overhead movements.

Key characteristics of bone spur pain include:

• Sharp or stabbing sensations during specific movements
• Dull, aching pain that persists even at rest in advanced cases
• Tenderness when pressure is applied to the affected area
• Pain that gradually worsens over time if left unaddressed

2. Reduced Range of Motion

Bone spurs can significantly limit your ability to move a joint through its full range of motion. This restriction occurs because the bony growth physically blocks normal joint movement or causes pain that prevents you from moving freely.

When bone spurs develop in weight-bearing joints like the hips or knees, you may notice difficulty performing everyday activities such as bending, squatting, or walking. In the spine, bone spurs can restrict your ability to bend forward, backward, or twist your torso comfortably.

This limitation in mobility often develops gradually, and many people adapt their movements unconsciously to avoid discomfort. However, this compensation can lead to muscle imbalances and additional joint problems over time. You might notice:

• Stiffness in the morning or after periods of inactivity
• Inability to fully extend or flex the affected joint
• A “catching” or “locking” sensation during movement
• Difficulty performing tasks that were once easy

3. Swelling and Inflammation

When bone spurs irritate surrounding tissues, they can trigger an inflammatory response that results in visible swelling around the affected joint. This inflammation is your body’s natural attempt to protect and heal the area, but it can contribute to additional discomfort and stiffness.

The swelling associated with bone spurs may appear as puffiness or enlargement of the joint area. The skin over the affected region might feel warm to the touch and appear slightly red or discolored. This inflammation can fluctuate throughout the day, often becoming more pronounced after physical activity.

Signs of inflammation related to bone spurs include:

• Visible swelling that makes the joint appear larger than normal
• Warmth radiating from the affected area
• Tightness or pressure sensation around the joint
• Increased sensitivity to touch in the swollen region

4. Numbness and Tingling Sensations

When bone spurs develop on the spine or near nerve pathways, they can compress or irritate nearby nerves, leading to numbness, tingling, or a “pins and needles” sensation. This symptom, known as paresthesia, can extend beyond the location of the bone spur itself.

Bone spurs on the spine are particularly notorious for causing nerve-related symptoms. Spinal bone spurs can narrow the spaces where nerves exit the spinal column, a condition called foraminal stenosis. This compression can cause symptoms that radiate down your arms or legs, depending on which part of the spine is affected.

For instance, bone spurs in the cervical spine (neck) may cause numbness or tingling that travels down your arms to your hands and fingers. Similarly, bone spurs in the lumbar spine (lower back) can produce these sensations in your legs and feet.

Nerve-related symptoms may include:

• Electric shock-like sensations
• Numbness that comes and goes or remains constant
• Tingling that worsens with certain positions or movements
• Burning sensations along the affected nerve pathway

5. Muscle Weakness

Chronic nerve compression from bone spurs can lead to muscle weakness in the areas served by the affected nerves. This weakness develops because the compressed nerve cannot properly transmit signals between your brain and muscles, impairing normal muscle function.

Muscle weakness related to bone spurs typically manifests gradually and may not be immediately noticeable. You might first recognize it as difficulty performing specific tasks, such as gripping objects, lifting items, or maintaining balance. In severe cases, this weakness can significantly impact your daily activities and quality of life.

When bone spurs on the spine compress spinal nerves, you may experience weakness in your extremities. For example:

• Difficulty holding or manipulating small objects if nerves in the neck are affected
• Problems with foot drop or difficulty raising your toes if lower spine nerves are compressed
• Reduced grip strength or inability to perform fine motor tasks
• Fatigue in the affected muscles during normal activities
• Difficulty standing from a seated position or climbing stairs

6. Visible Lumps or Bumps

In some locations, particularly in the hands and feet, bone spurs may be large enough to create visible lumps or bumps beneath the skin. These protrusions are the actual bony growths and can be felt when you touch the affected area.

Bone spurs commonly develop visible bumps on the top of the foot, especially near the big toe joint, or on the fingers, particularly in people with osteoarthritis. These visible bone spurs are often called Heberden’s nodes (at the fingertips) or Bouchard’s nodes (in the middle joints of the fingers) when they occur in the hands.

While these visible bone spurs may not always be painful, they can:

• Create cosmetic concerns for some individuals
• Make wearing shoes or gloves uncomfortable
• Catch on clothing or other objects
• Become tender if pressure is applied directly to them
• Limit joint flexibility due to their size and location

7. Grinding or Popping Sensations

Many people with bone spurs report feeling or hearing grinding, grating, or popping sensations when moving the affected joint. This phenomenon, called crepitus, occurs when rough bone surfaces or bone spurs rub against each other or against other joint structures during movement.

Crepitus can be audible to others or only noticeable to you as a feeling within the joint. While occasional joint popping is normal and usually harmless, persistent grinding sensations accompanied by pain may indicate the presence of bone spurs or significant joint degeneration.

This symptom is particularly common in:

• The knee joint, where you might feel grinding when bending or straightening your leg
• The shoulder, producing crackling sounds during arm rotation
• The spine, creating popping sounds when turning your head or twisting your back
• The hip joint, causing grinding sensations when walking or rotating the leg

The grinding sensation may be accompanied by a feeling of instability or that the joint isn’t moving smoothly through its normal range of motion.

Main Causes of Bone Spurs

Understanding what causes bone spurs can help you identify risk factors and take appropriate preventive measures. Bone spurs develop as the body’s response to pressure, stress, or damage to bones and joints over time.

Osteoarthritis

The most common cause of bone spurs is osteoarthritis, a degenerative joint disease that breaks down the cartilage cushioning between bones. As cartilage deteriorates, bones begin to rub against each other, prompting the body to form extra bone in an attempt to repair the damage and stabilize the joint.

Aging

Natural wear and tear on joints over time makes bone spurs increasingly common with age. The cumulative effect of years of joint use, combined with decreased cartilage regeneration, creates conditions favorable for bone spur development.

Joint Injuries

Previous joint injuries or trauma can trigger bone spur formation as part of the healing process. Fractures, dislocations, or torn ligaments may lead to irregular bone growth as the body attempts to stabilize and protect the damaged area.

Spinal Degeneration

Bone spurs on the spine often result from degenerative disc disease or spinal stenosis. As the discs between vertebrae break down, the spine becomes less stable, prompting bone spur formation along the vertebrae to provide additional support.

Repetitive Stress and Overuse

Activities or occupations that place repeated stress on specific joints can accelerate bone spur development. Athletes, manual laborers, and individuals who perform repetitive motions are at higher risk for developing bone spurs in frequently used joints.

Poor Posture

Chronic poor posture can create uneven pressure distribution across joints and the spine, contributing to bone spur formation in areas experiencing excessive stress.

Genetic Factors

Some individuals have a genetic predisposition to developing bone spurs, particularly those with family histories of osteoarthritis or other joint conditions.

Obesity

Excess body weight places additional stress on weight-bearing joints such as the hips, knees, and spine, accelerating joint degeneration and increasing the likelihood of bone spur formation.

Prevention Strategies

While not all bone spurs can be prevented, especially those related to aging or genetics, several strategies can help reduce your risk or slow their development.

Maintain a Healthy Weight

Keeping your weight within a healthy range reduces stress on weight-bearing joints, particularly the hips, knees, spine, and feet. Even modest weight loss can significantly decrease joint pressure and slow degenerative changes that lead to bone spurs.

Exercise Regularly

Low-impact exercises such as swimming, cycling, and walking help maintain joint flexibility and strengthen the muscles that support your joints. Strong muscles provide better joint stability and can help prevent the excessive wear that contributes to bone spur formation. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week.

Practice Good Posture

Maintaining proper posture while sitting, standing, and moving helps distribute weight evenly across your joints and spine. This balanced distribution reduces excessive pressure on specific areas that could trigger bone spur development. Be mindful of your posture throughout the day, especially if you work at a desk or perform repetitive tasks.

Use Proper Techniques

When lifting objects or performing physical activities, use correct body mechanics to avoid placing unnecessary stress on your joints. Bend at the knees rather than the waist, keep heavy objects close to your body, and avoid twisting motions while carrying loads.

Wear Supportive Footwear

Proper shoes with good arch support and cushioning can prevent excessive stress on your feet, ankles, knees, and lower back. Avoid wearing high heels regularly, as they alter your body’s alignment and increase joint stress.

Stay Hydrated and Eat Well

A balanced diet rich in calcium, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids supports bone and joint health. Adequate hydration helps maintain the fluid that cushions your joints. Include plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains in your diet.

Address Joint Problems Early

If you experience joint pain or injury, seek medical attention promptly. Early treatment of joint problems can prevent further damage that might lead to bone spur formation.

Avoid Repetitive Stress

If your work or hobbies involve repetitive movements, take regular breaks to rest affected joints. Vary your activities when possible and use ergonomic tools and equipment designed to reduce joint stress.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can bone spurs go away on their own?

No, bone spurs are permanent bony growths that do not dissolve or disappear naturally. Once formed, they remain unless surgically removed. However, symptoms can often be managed effectively without removing the bone spur itself.

Are bone spurs always painful?

No, many people have bone spurs without experiencing any symptoms. Pain and other symptoms only occur when the bone spur presses against nerves, rubs against other bones, or restricts joint movement. Bone spurs are often discovered incidentally on X-rays taken for other reasons.

How are bone spurs diagnosed?

Bone spurs are typically diagnosed through imaging tests such as X-rays, MRI scans, or CT scans. Your doctor will also perform a physical examination and review your medical history and symptoms. These imaging studies clearly show the bony growths and help determine if they’re causing your symptoms.

Do bone spurs mean I have arthritis?

Bone spurs are commonly associated with osteoarthritis, but having bone spurs doesn’t automatically mean you have arthritis. However, bone spurs often develop as a result of joint degeneration caused by osteoarthritis or other conditions that affect joint health.

Can young people develop bone spurs?

While bone spurs are most common in people over 60, younger individuals can develop them, particularly if they have joint injuries, engage in high-impact sports, have certain genetic conditions, or experience repetitive joint stress from their occupation or activities.

What is the difference between bone spurs on the spine and other locations?

Bone spurs on the spine are particularly concerning because they can compress spinal nerves or the spinal cord itself, causing radiating pain, numbness, weakness, or tingling in the arms or legs. Bone spurs in other joints typically cause localized symptoms in the affected joint area.

When should I see a doctor about bone spur symptoms?

You should consult a healthcare provider if you experience persistent joint pain, significant limitation in movement, numbness or tingling that doesn’t resolve, progressive muscle weakness, or symptoms that interfere with your daily activities. Early evaluation can help prevent complications and improve outcomes.

Can bone spurs cause permanent nerve damage?

If bone spurs compress nerves for extended periods without treatment, they can potentially cause permanent nerve damage. This is why it’s important to seek medical attention if you experience symptoms of nerve compression, such as persistent numbness, tingling, or progressive muscle weakness.

Are bone spurs the same as calcium deposits?

No, bone spurs and calcium deposits are different conditions. Bone spurs are solid bony growths that extend from bones, while calcium deposits (calcification) involve calcium crystals forming in soft tissues like tendons or ligaments. However, both can cause similar symptoms in some cases.

Can diet or supplements prevent bone spurs?

While no specific diet or supplement can prevent bone spurs entirely, maintaining good overall nutrition supports joint health and may slow joint degeneration. A diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods, adequate calcium and vitamin D for bone health, and omega-3 fatty acids may be beneficial. Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen.

References:

• Mayo Clinic – Bone Spurs
• Johns Hopkins Medicine – Bone Spurs
• Healthline – Bone Spurs
• WebMD – Bone Spurs
• American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons – Bone Spurs