Osteophyte (bone spur)
Treating osteophytes
Osteophytes don't usually cause pain, but the associated arthritis might.
If you're in pain, over-the-counter painkillers, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen , may help. Ibuprofen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) , which can also help reduce any swelling and inflammation.
If you're overweight, losing weight will help by relieving some of the strain on your joints.
A physiotherapist may also be able to help you by recommending exercises that can strengthen the muscles surrounding the problem area, and by helping to improve your range of movement.
Surgery can sometimes be used to help manage any underlying arthritis in the joint.It can be helpful for osteoarthritis that affects your hips, knees or joints, particularly those at the base of your thumb.
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There's usually no need to remove an osteophyte, unless it's irritating a nerve in the spine or restricting a joint's range of movement.If you do need surgery to remove an osteophyte, your surgeon will explain the procedure's risks and benefits.
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018
Introduction
Find out about osteophytes, which are bony lumps (bone spurs) that grow on the bones of the spine or around the joints.
Osteophyte symptoms
Osteophytesdon't always cause symptoms. They can cause problems if they: rub against other bone or tissue restrict movement squeeze nearby nerves For example, osteophytes that occur in the: s
What causes osteophytes?
Osteophytes tend toform when the joints have been affected by arthritis. Osteoarthritis damages cartilage, which is the tough, white, flexible tissue that lines the bones and allows the joints to mov
When to seek medical advice
See your GP if you havejoint pain or stiffness, or if you have other symptoms in an area of your body, such as numbness or nerve pain. They'llinvestigatethe underlying cause. Your GP will ask you abo
Treating osteophytes
Osteophytes don't usually cause pain, but the associated arthritis might. If you're in pain, over-the-counter painkillers, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen , may help. Ibuprofen is a non-steroidal a
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