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Bone spurs (osteophytes)

Also called Osteophyte or Bone spur

Osteophytes, or bone spurs, are bony lumps that grow on the edges of bones. They often form in joints affected by osteoarthritis and in the spine as people get older. Many people have them without knowing, and they are often found by chance on an X-ray.

Last updated Nov 9, 2026

What it is

Bone spurs only need treatment if they cause symptoms, such as pain or pressing on a nerve.

Pain relief, physiotherapy and losing weight can help. Surgery to remove a spur is rarely needed.

Common signs

  • Often no symptoms
  • Joint pain or stiffness
  • A hard lump near a joint
  • Numbness, tingling or weakness if a spur presses on a nerve

How it is usually diagnosed

  • X-ray
  • Sometimes MRI or CT scans

Records worth keeping

Keeping these together makes each appointment easier, especially when you see a new doctor:

  • X-ray and scan reports
  • Physiotherapy plans
  • Orthopaedic letters

Questions to ask your doctor

  • Are the spurs causing my symptoms?
  • What can I do to ease the pain?
  • Is there any reason to remove them?

When to get help right away

Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department if you have:

  • Sudden weakness in the legs, numbness around the bottom, or loss of bladder or bowel control: call 112

This page is general information. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a doctor who knows your history. Medfold keeps your records organised; it does not interpret them.

Sources

Related conditions

OsteoarthritisA common condition that makes joints painful and stiff, most often the knees, hips and hands. Exercise, weight loss and pain relief help.Cervical spondylosisAge-related wear of the bones and discs in the neck, often causing no symptoms but sometimes neck pain and stiffness.