CERVICAL BONE SPURS

Causes

Rheumatoid and Psoriatic Arthritis

Other factors contributing to the formation of cervical osteophytes include rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis. Traumatic injuries to the neck area can also trigger the development of these bony growths. Additionally, consistently poor posture over time may lead to undue stress on the cervical spine, resulting in osteophyte formation.

Cervical Osteoarthritis

Cervical osteoarthritis significantly contributes to the formation of cervical osteophytes. When the joints in the neck degrade, a condition prevalent in older adults, the surrounding tissues become inflamed or damaged.
This inflammation or damage can have a domino effect on bone growth. Essentially, as the tissues around the cervical spine react to wear and tear, they abnormally influence nearby bone formation. In response, new bone cells may start to develop where they typically wouldn’t, leading to the growth of bone spurs, or osteophytes.

Cervical osteoarthritis impacts several joint areas within the neck.  These include disc spaces, facet joints, and uncovertebral joints between vertebrae C3 and C7. This degeneration and subsequent tissue inflammation serve as significant triggers for osteophyte development.

In addition to cervical osteoarthritis, other factors such as different types of arthritis, traumatic injuries, and poor posture can also instigate osteophyte formation. However, the role of cervical osteoarthritis appears pivotal due to the chronic and progressive nature of joint degradation in the neck.

How Do Inflamed or Damaged Tissues Influence Cervical Osteophyte Growth?

Inflamed or damaged tissues around the cervical spine have a direct impact on the development of osteophytes, also known as bone spurs. Essentially, when these tissues are compromised, they can send abnormal signals to nearby bone cells.

Here’s a closer look at how this happens:

• Constant Bone Renewal: Just like fingernails and hair, bones are continuously renewing themselves. However, when the tissue around the spine is damaged or inflamed, this renewal process can go awry.
• Abnormal Bone Growth: The inflammation or damage can misdirect the body, resulting in new bone cells forming in places where they shouldn’t. This errant growth leads to the creation of osteophytes.
• Wear and Tear: Over time, regular wear and tear can damage the ligaments and tendons around the cervical spine.
• Cervical Osteoarthritis: This condition, common in older adults, causes joint degradation. Specifically, it affects the disc spaces, facet joints, and uncovertebral joints between the C3 and C7 levels of the spine.
• Other Contributing Factors: Besides arthritis, traumatic injuries and poor posture can also trigger inflammation and tissue damage, leading to osteophyte formation.

In summary, the presence of inflamed or damaged tissues around the cervical spine disrupts normal bone growth processes, prompting the development of osteophytes. Understanding these influences can help in managing and mitigating the associated pain and mobility issues.

Cervical Spondylosis

Cervical spondylosis, often associated with the aging process, involves the degeneration of joints in the neck. As you grow older, the wear and tear on cervical spine ligaments and tendons can lead to damage and inflammation. This degradation is not limited to a single type of joint but affects various joint structures.

Specifically, cervical spondylosis targets the spaces between the discs, modified joints that cushion vertebrae, the facet joints that enable neck movements, and the uncovertebral joints located between levels C3 and C7 of the cervical spine. The injured or inflamed tissue can stimulate the growth of bony projections known as cervical osteophytes. These bone spurs can further complicate the neck’s functionality and may lead to discomfort or reduced mobility.

In summary, cervical spondylosis is a common condition in older adults that results from the gradual deterioration of neck joints and surrounding structures, potentially causing inflammation and the growth of bone spurs.

Symptoms Indicating Cervical Osteophytes Are a Cause For Concern:

Cervical osteophytes, commonly known as bone spurs, can present varied and troubling symptoms that signal the need for medical attention.

Pain and Mobility Issues

• Pain: You may experience sharp or dull pain in the neck, which can limit your range of motion.
• Reduced Mobility: Bone spurs may lead to stiffness, making everyday activities difficult.

Neurological Symptoms

• Radiating Pain: Nerve compression by bone spurs can cause pain that radiates from the neck down to the arms and even legs.
• Tingling and Numbness: Compression can also result in tingling sensations or numbness along the nerve pathways.
• Weakness: Muscle weakness in affected areas, particularly the arms.

Specific Conditions

• Radicular Pain: This refers to pain that follows the path of a specific nerve, often starting from the neck and radiating down.
• Headaches: Bone spurs can cause upper neck pain that radiates into the head, resulting in headaches.

Severe Cases

• Swallowing Difficulties: Rare but serious, large bone spurs can encroach upon the esophagus, leading to challenges with swallowing, known as dysphagia.
• Spinal Cord Compression: If the spinal cord itself is compressed, you may experience more widespread neurological deficits, including potential impacts to the legs and other areas below the site of compression.

When to Seek Medical Advice Most symptoms related to cervical bone spurs can be managed with nonsurgical treatments. However, if nerve or spinal cord compression is suspected, doctors may recommend spinal decompression surgery. Always consult with a healthcare professional if you experience any of these concerning symptoms.

Diagnosis:

Cervical osteophytes are typically diagnosed through a combination of medical history, physical examination, and imaging studies.  Imaging studies include X-rays, CT scans, or MRI scans. Lastly, these imaging tests can help visualize the presence and extent of bone spurs in the cervical spine.  Also, the images will disclose any associated nerve compression or spinal cord involvement.

Risk Factors 

Bone spurs, or osteophytes in the spine, typically emerge as a result of spinal degeneration. Here’s a detailed look at the significant risk factors contributing to the development of these growths:

Aging

Natural wear and tear over the years can lead to the deterioration of spinal discs and joints, increasing the risk of bone spurs.

Disc Degeneration

Additionally, individuals with conditions such as osteoarthritis or degenerative disc disease may develop bone spurs.

Spinal Osteoarthritis

This condition, involving the breakdown of cartilage in the joints and disks in the neck and lower back, commonly leads to osteophyte formation.

Trauma

Past injuries to the spine can initiate changes in the spinal structure, potentially causing bone spurs as part of the body’s response.

Each of these factors can contribute to the problematic narrowing of the spaces through which spinal nerves exit, known as foraminal stenosis. This condition can lead to symptoms such as nerve pressure, discomfort, tingling, and numbness. By understanding and addressing these risk factors, individuals can manage their spinal health and potentially reduce the occurrence of bone spurs.

Non-Surgical Treatment of Cervical Bone Spurs:

To start living a pain-free life with bone spurs, patients should embrace a holistic approach.  This includes diet modification and crucial self-care techniques. Doctors recommend a diet rich in vitamins and calcium because these nutrients promote essential bone health.  Vitamins and Calcium can potentially alleviate some symptoms associated with bone spurs. Additionally, individuals may benefit from self-care practices such as rest, applying hot and cold therapy, modifying daily activities to reduce strain, and utilizing back support devices to ensure proper posture and support.

Non-surgical treatments

• Wear a neck brace: To immobilize the neck, thus minimizing discomfort and inflammation.
• Thermal Therapy: Applying ice packs or heating pads can help in reducing swelling and soothe the pain. Alternating between hot and cold may provide optimal relief.
• Exercise: Engaging in gentle, low-impact activities such as swimming or cycling can increase mobility without putting additional stress on joints. Regular, moderate exercise can also strengthen muscles around the affected area, providing support and reducing discomfort.
• Stretching Routines: Incorporating stretching into daily routines can improve flexibility and decrease tension in the muscles surrounding the bone spur.
• Dietary Adjustments: Certain nutrients might help in managing bone spur symptoms. A diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods could potentially reduce symptoms.
• Corticosteroid Injections: These injections can provide temporary relief by reducing inflammation at the site of the bone spur.
• Adequate Rest: Allowing the affected part of the body to rest can prevent further aggravation of symptoms and help in the recovery process
• Use NSAIDs: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines, such as ibuprofen, can help control symptoms and lessen discomfort.
• Engage in physical or occupational therapy: Your doctors will recommend physical and or occupational therapy.  These therapies will improve the range of motion in your neck.  In addition, they will increase strength and flexibility in your neck, and utilize techniques to alleviate pain, stiffness, and swelling.
• Consider surgery: If persistent discomfort occurs, doctors may recommend surgical procedures to remove bone spurs or loose bodies that are aggravating spinal nerves.
• Employ additional supportive measures: Including the use of ice packs, cortisone injections, nonprescription painkillers, stretching activities, and resting the neck.

Summation

Each of these methods addresses specific aspects of bone spur management and when combined with general health practices, can provide comprehensive support and relief, facilitating a smoother recovery and a return to pain-free living. When non-surgical approaches do not successfully manage the symptoms, or when the bone spurs interfere significantly with daily activities, doctors will recommend surgical intervention. However, the above-listed non-surgical remedies often provide significant relief and are typically considered the first line of treatment.

Surgical Treatment of Cervical Bone Spurs:

When it comes to addressing bone spurs in the spine, several surgical options are typically recommended, each tailored to the specific location and severity of the osteophytes. Here’s an overview of the common procedures:

Decompression Surgeries

Spinal decompression surgery might become necessary for cervical bone spurs when these growths exert pressure on a spinal nerve or the spinal cord. This pressure can lead to pain, numbness, or even neurological symptoms. If non-surgical treatments like medication or physical therapy fail to alleviate the discomfort, doctors can recommend surgery. The goal is to relieve the compression, allowing the nerve or spinal cord to function without obstruction.
These surgeries aim to relieve pressure on spinal nerves caused by bone spurs.

Foraminotomy or Foraminectomy:

The goal of a foraminotomy is to release pressure from a nerve root. An intervertebral foramen, a bony, hollow archway between two neighboring vertebrae, is where every nerve root exits the body. A foraminotomy enlarges the foramen space by removing or shaving down bone tissue surrounding it. This surgical technique is employed to widen the opening where nerve roots exit the spinal column (known as the foramen). The procedure involves removing bone or tissue that can compress the nerve roots, which can lead to pain and inflammation. Often, surgeons perform this surgery alongside other procedures, such as laminectomy or laminotomy, to allow surgeons better access to the affected nerves.

Laminectomy or Laminotomy:

These procedures focus on easing pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots by enlarging the spinal canal. This is achieved by removing or trimming the lamina—the rear part of the vertebra covering the spinal canal. This reduction or removal helps in creating more space for the nerves, thus alleviating pain and reducing any nerve inflammation. Additionally, this process allows surgeons to eliminate any other offending agents like bone spurs or damaged tissue that may cause discomfort.

Each of these procedures offers a different approach to alleviating pain and restoring function, tailored to the specific pathological conditions present. The choice of surgery is a critical decision and depends on a variety of factors including the degree of spinal degeneration, the patient’s general health, his or her dedication to rehabilitation, and other criteria. The surgeon’s knowledge and experience play an integral part in determining the potential success of the surgery in achieving long-term relief from back or neck pain and other related symptoms. Understanding what each type of surgery entails and how it addresses the underlying issues is crucial in making an informed decision that aligns with your long-term health objectives.

Resecting Bone Spurs

Osteophyte Resection: Specifically targeting the bone spurs themselves, this surgical approach involves the direct removal of spinal osteophytes. By eliminating these bone overgrowths, the procedure helps in decompressing the nerves, mitigating symptoms of pain and nerve interference.

Through these specialized surgical treatments, patients suffering from spinal bone spurs can achieve significant relief from their symptoms, leading to improved spinal function and reduced discomfort. Each procedure is selected based on the patient’s specific condition, ensuring personalized and effective intervention.

If a spinal cord or nerve compression results in persistent pain and discomfort and/or a loss of motor or sensory function, your doctor will recommend spine surgery. Furthermore, with surgery, the surgeon can remove tissue and bone spurs to reduce pressure on the spinal cord and/or nerve roots.

Understanding the Need for a Comprehensive Consultation

Only after a comprehensive consultation with a qualified and experienced surgeon can you know which procedure offers long-term relief for your specific condition. A thorough evaluation ensures that the surgical approach is tailored to your unique health needs, enhancing the likelihood of successful outcomes. If you are considering back surgery to relieve chronic pain, it’s essential to learn what the term “back surgery” really means and which type would help your condition the most.

Surgical Options Explored

• Spinal Bone Spur Removal: In this procedure, bone spurs from the vertebra are removed using specialized instruments.
• Laminectomy: This operation is intended to reduce pressure on the spinal cord associated with central spinal stenosis. The lamina, a part of the afflicted vertebra at the rear of the spine, is cut off during surgery, providing more room for the spinal cord.
• Foraminotomy: Aimed at releasing pressure from a nerve root, this procedure involves enlarging the space of an intervertebral foramen—a bony, hollow archway between two neighboring vertebrae. Bone tissue around the foramen is removed or shaved down to relieve nerve root compression.

A surgeon could also advise an alternative surgical technique, such as a laminectomy or foraminotomy.  This recommendation is due to the possibility of the bone spurs returning.  Additionally, there is a possibility that other factors besides bone spurs are contributing to symptoms.

Factors Influencing Surgical Success

The degree of spinal degeneration, the patient’s general health, his or her dedication to rehabilitation, and other criteria determine whether or not a procedure may lessen or eliminate back or neck pain and other problems. The surgeon’s knowledge and experience play an important part in how fast the patient will recover. Every aspect of your health profile is examined to ensure the chosen surgical method aligns with your overall health.

Summation

This comprehensive approach to diagnosing and planning treatment underscores the indispensable role of a seasoned surgeon in guiding you through the complexities of back surgery. By prioritizing a detailed consultation, you can proceed with confidence.  In addition you will know that the recommended surgical option is the best possible choice tailored specifically for you.

Complications:

Complications of cervical osteophytes may include persistent pain, nerve damage, spinal cord compression, and loss of mobility. In severe cases, untreated bone spurs can lead to permanent disability and neurological deficits.

Physical Therapy Recommendations:

Physical therapy plays a crucial role in the management of cervical osteophytes by improving neck strength, flexibility, and posture. Thus, a physical therapist can develop a customized exercise program to address specific symptoms and improve overall cervical spine function.

Long-Term Benefits of Treatment:

The long-term benefits of treating cervical osteophytes include reduced pain, improved mobility, and prevention of further degenerative changes. By addressing symptoms and implementing appropriate treatment strategies, individuals can experience long-term relief and maintain a higher quality of life.

Effective Strategies to Prevent Bone Spurs:

As previously read, bone spurs cause pain and discomfort. Fortunately, doctors recommend proactive measures you can implement to minimize your risk. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to prevent the formation of bone spurs.

• Maintain Regular Physical Activity: Engaging in regular exercise helps maintain joint function and prevent stiffness. Opt for activities that enhance flexibility and strengthen the muscles, which in turn helps reduce the strain on the bones.
• Adopt a Nutritious Diet: Doctors believe that eating a balanced diet supports healing. Focus on foods that are high in vitamins and minerals, especially calcium, which plays a direct role in bone health. Incorporating fruits, vegetables, and whole grains into your meals can also support overall health.
• Minimize Injury Risks: During sports or physically demanding activities, it’s essential to use the proper techniques and safety equipment. This reduces the stress on your joints and bones, lowering the risk of bone spur development.
• Proper Body Mechanics When Lifting: Whether it’s during exercise or while moving objects, proper lifting techniques are critical. Use your legs rather than your back to lift heavy items to distribute weight evenly and avoid excessive pressure on any one part of your body.
• Quit Smoking: Smoking can weaken bone structure and overall health, making you more susceptible to bone spurs. Quitting smoking can significantly improve bone health and reduce the risks associated with bone spur formation.
• Limit Alcohol Consumption: Excessive alcohol intake can lead to bone weakness and an increased risk of bone spurs. Moderating your alcohol consumption can help maintain strong bones and overall health.

By integrating these lifestyle changes and precautions, you can significantly reduce the risk of developing bone spurs and promote better overall bone health.

Related Conditions:

Cervical osteophytes are commonly associated with other degenerative spinal conditions.  Despite the term “bone spurs” invoking images of sharp spikes, these growths are usually rounded and scalloped, resembling the hem of a ruffled dress. They are a natural part of aging and can also be associated with conditions like degenerative disc disease, osteoarthritis, and spinal stenosis.   

Living with Cervical Bone Spurs:

Living with cervical osteophytes may require lifestyle adjustments to minimize symptoms and prevent further degeneration of the cervical spine. Ultimately, regular exercise, proper posture, and ergonomic modifications can help improve quality of life and maintain spinal health.

Reasons to Choose the Southwest Scoliosis and Spine Institute:

The Southwest Scoliosis and Spine Institute offers specialized services tailored specifically for patients suffering from bone spurs. Patients should to take advantage of a complimentary MRI review, which helps determine the most effective treatment plan tailored to their specific conditions. Additionally, the Institute provides personalized consultations with skilled medical professionals. These services underscore their reputation for pioneering some of the most advanced and effective spine surgery procedures available. The objective is to transform bone spur-related pain from a persistent issue into a resolved condition.

At the Southwest Scoliosis and Spine Institute, we focus on Scoliosis Diagnosis, Treatment, & Care for our Patients. Our fellowship-trained, board-certified expert orthopedic scoliosis surgeons, Richard Hostin, MD, Devesh Ramnath, MD, and Ishaq Syed, MD, specialize in all types of spine conditions, deformities, and scoliosis pain. Our physicians offer comprehensive spine care and surgical expertise for patients with cervical osteophytes and other spinal conditions. With state-of-the-art facilities and a multidisciplinary approach to treatment, the institute provides personalized care plans tailored to each patient’s unique needs. With offices conveniently located in Dallas, Plano, and Frisco, Texas, patients can access expert care close to home, ensuring optimal outcomes and a higher quality of life.

____________________

JAMA: Osteophytes of the Cervical Spine