Bone spurs, or osteophytes, are smooth, bony projections that develop along the edges of bones, typically where they meet at a joint. While these growths are often the body's attempt to heal itself in response to long-term pressure or friction, they frequently cause inflammation and pain in the surrounding tissues. At Central Florida Foot and Ankle Center, Tatiana A. Wellens, DPM, PhD, FACFAS, and Maria T. Jaramillo-Dolan, DPM, FACFAS, evaluate patients in Winter Haven, Lakeland, and Davenport, FL, who are struggling with the mobility limitations caused by these growths. Understanding how a bone spur affects different parts of the body is key to managing your comfort and joint health.

Formation and Symptoms in the Foot and Heel 

In the feet, a bone spur most commonly develops on the heel bone, often as a result of chronic plantar fasciitis. When the ligament that supports your arch is under constant tension, the body may build extra bone at the attachment point to reinforce the area. Many patients describe the sensation as a sharp pinprick or a dull ache that gets worse while standing. Although the spur itself is not always painful, it can rub against tendons and nerves, leading to localized swelling and a significant decrease in walking endurance.

Mechanical Stress and Bone Spurs in the Knee 

When a bone spur forms in the knee, it is almost always a byproduct of osteoarthritis. As the protective cartilage wears away, the bones begin to rub together, triggering the growth of osteophytes to increase the surface area of the joint. This can lead to a grinding sensation, known as crepitus, and may physically block the knee from fully extending or bending. Patients often find that their range of motion decreases over time, making activities like climbing stairs or getting out of a car increasingly difficult without medical intervention.

Nerve Compression and Spinal Bone Spurs 

The spine is another frequent site for these growths, usually occurring in the vertebrae as the discs between them begin to thin. A spinal bone spur can be particularly problematic because the spinal column is a narrow space filled with sensitive nerves. If a spur grows into the nerve root’s space, it can cause radiating pain, numbness, or weakness down the legs and as far away as the foot. This condition requires careful monitoring to ensure that the compression does not lead to permanent neurological changes or a loss of coordination.

Clinical Management and Treatment Pathways 

The goal of treating a bone spur is to eliminate pain and restore the function of the affected joint. Our podiatry team begins with conservative measures such as custom orthotics to pad the area, physical therapy to strengthen supporting muscles, or anti-inflammatory medications. If these methods do not provide enough relief, advanced options like corticosteroid injections or surgical removal may be discussed to clear the joint of the obstructive growth.

Through expert diagnostic imaging and a commitment to restorative care, Tatiana A. Wellens, DPM, PhD, FACFAS, and Maria T. Jaramillo-Dolan, DPM, FACFAS, provide the residents of Central Florida with the comprehensive support needed to overcome the pain of a bone spur at Central Florida Foot and Ankle Center. If you need to schedule an appointment at our Winter Haven, Lakeland, or Davenport, FL, offices, call (863) 299-4551.