Bone Spur Surgery

What Is a Bone Spur and Does It Require Surgery?

While some anatomical abnormalities, such as a herniated disc or a bulging disc, can heal on their own through the process of resorption, bone spurs will not heal and may require surgery. However, it is still important that you try a variety of non-operative, conservative treatment methods before considering any type of invasive surgery. As you work with your doctor to design a treatment plan, it may help to know a bit more about what causes bone spurs and why they can be so painful.

Details about Facet Disease

Bone spurs in the spine are primarily caused by facet disease. Below are some facts about facet disease that can explain how excess growths of bone along your spine can lead to symptoms throughout your limbs:

• Facet disease is primarily caused by degeneration that accompanies the aging process.
• The cartilage surrounding the facet joints begins to deteriorate.
• As vertebral bones begin to rub against each other, bone spurs can form.
• Bone spurs in the joint space or on the vertebral endplates can compress nearby spinal nerves.
• A compressed spinal nerve can cause symptoms of pain, tingling, numbness, and weakness in the region of the body innervated by that nerve.

Conservative and Minimally Invasive Treatment Options

If your doctor has confirmed a diagnosis of neural compression due to bone spurs, he or she may recommend a regimen of conservative treatment that includes pain medication, physical therapy, gentle stretching, hot-cold therapy, and intermittent rest. If weeks or months of these methods prove ineffective and your doctor suggests surgery for bone spurs, consider contacting Laser Spine Institute, the Leader in Endoscopic Spine Surgery™. Laser Spine Institute‘s minimally invasive procedures are the safe and effective alternative to open back or neck surgery. Finally, free yourself from back pain. Contact a Laser Spine Institute consultation center today for a complimentary review of your MRI or CT scan.