How Bone Spur Removal Works

Pain and inflammation due to bone spurs can be debilitating and can indicate a more serious underlying issue. If left untreated, they can cause permanent joint damage, so it’s important to consider bone spur removal. But the process can feel overwhelming, and the consensus of opinion and research can be confusing. This article will help you gain a better understanding of bone spur removal.

In this article, we’ll provide an overview of bone spurs and explain the removal process. By the end, you should have a better understanding of how bone spur removal works and when it might be necessary.

What Are Bone Spurs?

Bone spurs are small bony projections that develop along joints or around tendons and ligaments. They are typically caused by increased pressure from the joint or tendon rubbing adjacent tissue.

Bone spurs are often caused by osteoarthritis, although they can also be due to other medical conditions. They can cause pain and difficulty with mobility, making everyday activities uncomfortable.

Surgery for Bone Spurs

Surgical treatment may be recommended if your bone spurs are causing you pain or discomfort. However, before bone spur removal foot surgery, non-invasive treatments such as weight loss to reduce pressure on the joints, physical therapy, and medications may be used first.

A surgeon makes a small incision (opening) on your foot's top (dorsal side) or both sides to remove the bone spur. During surgery, your surgeon inserts a tool called a burr through the incision to remove the spur.

The procedure is usually outpatient; you may go home the same day. However, you may need to wear a boot or shoe for a few weeks while your foot heals.

Bone Spur Removal Recovery

The time it takes to recuperate varies depending on where the bone spur is. Your activity level and strength will improve gradually, but you must be patient as your body heals.

It would be best if you continued to eat healthily and take your pain medications as prescribed by your doctor. You can also do physical therapy exercises to strengthen your muscles and joints to reduce stress on your bones and prevent future pain from developing.

Bone spurs develop when the cartilage in your joint breaks down, exposing the underlying bone. Bone spurs can be avoided by consuming a diet high in calcium and vitamin D, exercising often, and maintaining a healthy weight.

Final Thoughts

Bone spur removal is a safe and effective way to manage chronic pain and treat underlying causes. With the help of physical therapy and medical guidance, patients can return to their previous level of activity without the risk of prolonged or excessive pain.

Surgery should be conducted with the utmost care and attention and with an eye on the patient’s long-term health. Performing this procedure should be done with the understanding that it will offer relief from symptoms in the short-term and also reduce the chances of recurring pain in the future.

If you think this procedure is right for you, it's important that you discuss it with your doctor to decide the best course of action. Whenever it comes to your health, knowledge is power.

Do you know anyone who has had a bone spur removal?