Bone spurs are common and in many cases, they don’t cause any symptoms. But when they do, they can lead to pain, stiffness and limited movement.
Understanding what bone spurs are and when they need treatment can help you manage symptoms and avoid unnecessary concern.
We spoke with Christopher Toth, a foot and ankle surgeon with Banner Health in Phoenix, about what causes bone spurs and how they are treated.
What is a bone spur?
A bone spur is an extra piece of bone that forms where ligaments or tendons attach to a bone.
“Everyone has bone spurs,” Toth said. “Even highly active people may have them and not know it.”
Most bone spurs do not cause problems and are often found incidentally on imaging.
Do bone spurs cause pain?
Not always.
“Just because you have a bone spur doesn’t mean there’s an issue,” Toth said. “They may not bother you at all.”
Pain typically happens when a bone spur:
- Presses on a nerve
- Rubs against surrounding tissue
- Limits joint movement
What are the symptoms of bone spurs?
When bone spurs cause symptoms, you may notice:
- Pain or tenderness
- Stiffness or reduced range of motion
- A grinding or catching sensation in a joint
- Nerve-related symptoms (like tingling or radiating pain)
Bone spurs in the feet may also cause irritation from shoes.
What causes bone spurs?
Bone spurs develop due to repeated stress or strain on bones and joints.
Common causes include:
- Repetitive movement or tension from tendons
- Genetics
- Injuries, especially during growth
- Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis
- Joint damage or degeneration
They can form in many areas, including the feet, heels, knees, hips, spine and shoulders.
Where do bone spurs commonly occur?
Bone spurs can develop anywhere but are most often found:
- On the heel (heel spurs)
- Along the spine
- In the knees and hips
- Around the shoulders
- In the hands and fingers
How are bone spurs treated?
Not all bone spurs need treatment.
“Not all bone spurs need to be removed. That’s a misconception,” Toth said.
Treatment depends on symptoms and may include:
Conservative treatments
- Activity modification
- Orthotics or supportive footwear
- Bracing
- Physical therapy
- Anti-inflammatory treatments or injections
Surgical options
If symptoms don’t improve:
- Procedures to relieve pressure on tendons or nerves
- Removal of the bone spur in certain cases
Can bone spurs go away?
Bone spurs do not go away on their own, but symptoms can often be managed without surgery.
Can you prevent bone spurs?
You may not be able to fully prevent them, but you can reduce strain on your joints by:
- Wearing supportive footwear
- Managing repetitive stress
- Treating underlying conditions
Frequently asked questions about bone spurs
Are bone spurs dangerous?
Most are harmless, but they can cause pain if they affect nearby tissues.
Do bone spurs always need treatment?
No, only if they cause symptoms.
Can bone spurs be removed without surgery?
They cannot be removed without surgery, but symptoms can often be managed.
What does a bone spur feel like?
It may cause pain, stiffness or a grinding sensation.
The bottom line
Bone spurs are common and often harmless, but they can cause discomfort when they affect surrounding tissues. Most cases can be managed with conservative treatment, and surgery is only needed in certain situations.
If you’re experiencing ongoing pain or limited movement, a Banner Health specialist can help determine the best treatment for you.
