What Are Bone Spurs?

Find out why bone spurs form and how you should treat them. 

A bone spur, also known as an osteophyte, is a bony bump that develops on bone. Sometimes bone spurs are a result of age, while other times it can be a warning sign of joint damage caused by osteoarthritis or due to a joint or tendon injury. Here’s what you should know about bone spurs, including when to turn to your Fort Walton Beach, and Crestview, FL, podiatrists, Dr. Cosimo Ricciardi and Dr. Neil Patel, for care.

Where can bone spurs develop? 

Bone spurs can develop just about anywhere on the body including the shoulders, spine, and hips. Your Fort Walton Beach, and Crestview, FL, podiatrists often see bone spurs develop on the knees and feet and the heels. While some people may have bone spurs and not even notice, sometimes they can lead to pain and discomfort.

What are the warning signs of bone spurs? 

Some people may have bone spurs but not even realize they have them until we perform imaging tests. However, it is possible to experience symptoms if the bone spurs rub against the bone or press on the tendons or nerves. In these situations, you may experience:

  • Joint pain
  • Stiffness or pain in the affected foot joint
  • Weakness or numbness in the feet, if the spur is pressing on the nerves
  • Muscle cramping
  • A visible hard bump under the skin
  • You may notice that running or other physical activities can make the pain worse

How are bone spurs treated? 

When you come into our office, the first thing we will do is go through your medical history and ask you questions about your symptoms before examining your foot. In some cases, we may need to run an MRI or CT scan to confirm the bone spur diagnosis. From there, Dr. Ricciardi and Dr. Patel will map out a treatment plan that is focused on helping you manage your pain and discomfort. While you may choose to take anti-inflammatories to ease pain, other treatment options include:

  • Rest and activity modification
  • Physical therapy and special exercises
  • Steroid injections for more severe and persistent pain

If you’re still experiencing pain and discomfort despite lifestyle modifications and implementing these pain management options, then your podiatrists may recommend surgery to remove the spur.

If you are looking for a podiatrist in Fort Walton Beach, or Crestview, FL, that can provide you with care for everything from bone spurs to bunions, then call Emerald Coast Podiatry at 850-862-4119 or 850-682-6522 to schedule an appointment with our team.

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Fort Walton Beach Office

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Monday:

8:30 am-5:00 pm

Tuesday:

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Wednesday:

8:30 am-4:00 pm

Thursday:

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Friday:

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