Bone spurs in the knees can cause pain, stiffness, and loss of joint mobility.
These bony projections form along the margin of the knee joint.
Bone spurs in the knee can be diagnosed with an X-ray.
Illustration by Michela Buttignol for Verywell Health
Illustration by Michela Buttignol for Verywell Health
How Do Bone Spurs in the Knee Form?
Bone spurs are largely the result of cartilage injury.
However, the repair process can become haphazard when the damage is severe or persistent.
In the early stages, osteophytes may cause few, if any, symptoms.
When Do Bone Spurs Develop With Arthritis?
Bone spurs account for many of the key symptoms of stage 2, including joint pain and stiffness.
This can help pinpoint the location of the problem and if other structures liketendonsandligamentsare affected.
The diagnosis of bone spurs can be confirmed with anX-ray of your knee.
Treatment
If a bone spur does not cause symptoms, no treatment is necessary.
Crutches may be recommended to avoid placing weight on the knee.
The treatment of bone spurs may also involve weight loss if you have extra weight orobesity.
Options include:
Opioid painkillersare generally avoided due to their high risk of abuse and addiction.
The injection is done underlocal anesthesiato numb the knee prior to the insertion of the needle.
This can help ease pain and prevent bone spurs from forming or progressing.
The process of cutting or scraping the spur away is known as debridement.
Knee arthroscopy may be accompanied by cartilage restoration, also known as cartilage replacement surgery.
What Happens If a Bone Spur Is Untreated?
Summary
Bone spurs in the knee are usually from osteoarthritis.
They can help you manage your symptoms and prevent more damage to your knee.
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