Although bone spurs can develop anywhere, they most commonly form in your feet. Because bone spurs can lead to chronic inflammation, leading podiatrists Randy Leff, DPM, and Kevin Sorensen, DPM, of Michfoot Surgeons PC help you get fast and effective relief. If you have a known bone spur or are experiencing foot pain, schedule an evaluation this state-of-the-art Southfield, Michigan, podiatric clinic. Click on the online scheduler, or call the office directly to book.
Bone Spur Q & A
Why do bone spurs form?
Ongoing stress and pressure on your bones cause them to try to repair damage and strengthen. To do this, your body starts building bone growths from calcium. Over time, this buildup becomes a bone spur.
Usually, bone spurs develop in joints, often as a protective barrier from arthritis damage. Sometimes bone spurs occur because of infections, being overweight, or having weakened bones.
Aside from heel spurs, midfoot and toe bone spurs are the most common types of bone spurs that develop in your feet. Depending on the location of your bone spur, you may or may not have symptoms.
Does a bone spur cause symptoms?
Not always. In many cases, men and women don’t even know they have a bone spur until they have an X-ray, but bone spurs can certainly lead to symptoms the more they progress. You may experience:
- Aching or soreness
- Redness or swelling
- Stiffness or inflammation
- Limited range of motion in the joint
- Difficulty walking or bearing weight on the foot
In some cases, the only times bone spurs bother you are when you wear snug shoes that rub against them. Since bone spurs can continue to grow and symptoms can keep progressing, early intervention and treatment planning are important.
Do I need surgery for a bone spur?
Usually no. Under most circumstances, Dr, Leff and Dr. Sorensen can help relieve pain and inflammation through nonsurgical methods. You can get relief from bone spur discomfort by:
- Changing to more comfortable shoes
- Wearing custom orthotic inserts
- Placing padding over the bone spur
- Getting cortisone injections
- Maintaining a healthy weight
If your bone spur is starting to lower your quality of life or is continuing to progress, it might be time to consider surgery. Bone spur surgery with the board-certified foot and ankle surgeons at Michfoot Surgeons PC is tailored to your specific needs. Your bone spur surgery could involve removing the spur itself, fusing bones together, or releasing your plantar fascia if your bone spur leads to chronic plantar fasciitis pain.
If you have bone spur discomfort, the expert podiatrists at Michfoot Surgeons PC can help. Schedule your bone spur evaluation online or over the phone.