Bone Spurs in the Spinal Column

Bone spurs are enlargements of a normal bone structure. The body’s natural repairing mechanism is the primary cause of bone spurs, as it tries to protect bones subjected to pressure or other stresses. The problem is, bone spurs may protrude into surrounding tissue as they grow, causing pain and other complications. Also called osteophytes, bone spurs can occur on almost any bone or along joint margins. Bone spurs of the spine are common. Bone spurs on vertebrae can be especially troubling because they have the potential to impinge on nerves emanating from the spinal column that radiate to other parts of the body. Depending on which vertebrae are affected and the degree of nerve impingement, a bone spur can result in pain or tingling sensation, numbness and weakness in the extremities, restricted motion, and in severe cases, disability.

Effective Solutions for Spinal Bone Spurs

Spinal bone spurs often form as a normal part of aging, so many people are affected by this problem as they grow older. Spurs can also occur as a result of a bone infection, irritation, or a skeletal deformity such as kyphosis that creates abnormal stresses on the spinal column. Treatments for bone spurs have traditionally included anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy and, in severe cases, surgical removal of bone spurs. Today, minimally invasive surgical techniques and laser spinal surgery can offer a quick and effective alternative treatment option to address painful bone spurs of the spine. Here at New Jersey Spine Specialists, with offices in Montclair and Summit, our board certified orthopedic surgeons treat patients with bone spurs on the spine from Short Hills, Livingston, Millburn, and throughout Union and Essex Counties and beyond. We are committed to finding the best solution for each patient using state-of-the-art procedures. If you have questions about bone spurs or other spinal problems, call or email us today to schedule an appointment.

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