How Did I Develop Bone Spurs on My Spine?

If you have recently began experiencing neck, back or radiating pain, bone spurs on your spine may be the cause. A consultation and examination, including diagnostic scans, are necessary to locate and verify the presence of bone spurs on your spine. Dr. Sina Rajamand at Battle Born Brain and Spine in Reno, NV can diagnose and treat bone spurs on your spine to provide relief from pain.

What are Bone Spurs?

Bone spurs are bony projections that can develop as a result of inflammation and irritation of the spinal vertebrae. As they grow large enough, bone spurs can narrow the space where spinal nerves pass through the vertebrae, or press on the spinal cord itself, causing persistent pain. Depending on their location, this pain can be felt in the neck, back or radiate outward into the arms, legs or other extremities. Numbness can also be a result of bone spurs on the spine.

Very often, bone spurs form on the spine as a natural result of your body’s attempt to heal itself as spinal vertebrae deteriorate due to osteoarthritis. As the bone wears away over time, this allows the vertebrae to compress onto the gel-like center that provides cushioning and shock absorbency for movement. The body produces more bone material to replace this worn away bone, often forming bony lumps that cause problems.

Treatment for Bone Spurs on the Spine in Reno

Some patients do not realize they have bone spurs on their spine, as they experience no side effects. Smaller spurs may only be discovered when a diagnostic scan for another condition reveals them. When they begin causing pain, numbness and problems with movement, Dr. Rajamand can prescribe various treatment options.

He will begin with non-invasive measures, such as physical therapy, NSAIDs to reduce inflammation, rest and weight loss. When these treatments are not effective, he may recommend facet joint injections to reduce the pain. These are guided by a fluoroscope for precise placement and superior effectiveness.

Dr. Rajamand is also a skilled and experienced neurosurgeon who can perform spinal procedures to remove bone spurs and otherwise repair damaged vertebrae to prevent their formation again. He will explain any necessary surgical procedures during a consultation at our Reno, Nevada, office. Often, he can use minimally invasive surgical techniques that promote faster healing and recovery.

Contact Battle Born Brain and Spine in Reno today to schedule an exam and consultation if you have recurring neck or back pain.