Bone Spurs
Arizona Orthopedic Surgery Solutions for Bone Spurs
What are Bone Spurs
Bone Spurs Diagnosis
Bone spurs will cause pressure along nerves, limit range of motion, and slide against other bones, ligaments, and muscles. You may feel painful lumps near your ankle as well as a general stiffness with tendon inflammation and in severe cases, tendon tear(s). After reporting your symptoms to your doctor, they will want you to elaborate on your symptoms and explain your medical history and that of your family. Once you’ve stated the level of pain you’re in, the doctor will conduct a physical examination by analyzing the range of motion and strength in your ankle. X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans can help locate arthritis, bone spurs, and even worn tendons and ligaments. If you aren’t experiencing symptoms, bone spurs are normally identified unintentionally with an x-ray or other imaging tests conducted for other medical reasons.
Bone Spurs Diagnosis
An X-ray may be performed to eliminate the possibility of breakages causing symptoms similar to peroneal tendonitis.
To begin with, the doctor will discuss the person’s medical history with them. This will often point to overuse, increased activity, or some other cause of peroneal tendonitis.
It is important to determine that the pain is in the peroneal tendons and not the fibula, as this could indicate a different problem.
A physiotherapist or doctor will use a variety of techniques in a physical exam to look for symptoms, generally by moving the foot and ankle into different positions and applying pressure.
An X-ray, ultrasound, or MRI scan might also be used to rule out any breaks, identify abnormal swelling or scar tissue, and further help with diagnosis.
Bone Spurs Treatment
Use ice to bring down any inflammation as well as over-the-counter pain relievers and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories. It is important to rest the affected ankle and wear shoes with heel gels, supportive insoles, or even custom orthotics. If overweight, weight loss can help keep limit the amount of stress exerted upon joints and bones. It is important to eat well and exercise, while being mindful of your posture while sitting and standing, and wearing supportive shoes in general. After managing bone spurs on your own, your doctor may have you perform physical therapy as specific exercises and stretches will assist with the pain while additionally increasing flexibility and strength. If over-the-counter pain relievers and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories fail to alleviate your pain, your doctor may write a prescription for a more intense pain reliever or suggest a cortisone or other steroid injection. After a year of nonsurgical treatment, your physician may recommend undergoing surgery to eradicate the bone spurs.
