DR HQ: Anatomy 101—Bone Spurs

In this week’s anatomy lesson, we’ll take a look at bone spurs, with a focus on elbow and shoulder spurs.

What Are Bone Spurs?

Bone spurs (medically called osteophytes) are small bony protrusions that grow on the edge of a joint, the point at which two bones meet. These bone spurs form as a result of damage to the joint area and can hinder movement and stability, often causing pain. Athletes who participate in sports that require repetitive motion tend to be slightly more at risk; a pitcher is a good example.

Bone spurs can be found in the elbow, the shoulder, the ankle and the heel.

Heel Spurs form where the plantar fascia ligament attaches to the bottom of the heel bone (a.k.a. calcaneus). The heel spur growth is made up of calcium...

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