How to treat bone spurs effectively
Disease description:
I have been experiencing joint pain recently, especially in my knees and lumbar spine. After visiting the hospital, I was diagnosed with bone spurs. Now I'm having difficulty moving around, and climbing stairs is especially strenuous. I would like to know what treatment options are available for bone spurs.
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Chen Jian
Osteophyte formation, also known as bone spurs or osteochondrophytes, is a common skeletal condition primarily characterized by abnormal bone growth along the edges of bones. This condition may cause pain, joint stiffness, and limited function, especially in the spine and joints of the limbs. The following are treatment options for osteophyte formation:
1. Daily care: Patients should reduce the range of motion in daily activities and avoid excessive neck extension or flexion, as well as overuse of the cervical spine. Additionally, consuming calcium-rich foods such as milk and chestnuts can help maintain bone health.
2. Medication: Medical treatment mainly includes ibuprofen capsules, calcium supplements (such as Caltrate), Du Huo Ji Sheng pills, Er Miao pills, and traditional Chinese herbal decoctions. These medications can help reduce inflammation and pain, prevent further progression of osteophyte formation, and assist in treating osteoporosis.
3. Physical therapy: Physical methods such as heat application, cold compresses, electrical stimulation, and ultrasound can help alleviate pain and improve joint mobility.
Assistive devices: Using walking sticks, walkers, or custom insoles can help reduce pressure on the joints.
4. Surgical treatment: When nonsurgical treatments fail to effectively control symptoms or when osteophyte formation severely affects quality of life, surgical intervention may be considered. Surgical options include arthroscopic surgery, joint debridement, and discectomy, primarily aimed at removing bone spurs or repairing damaged tissues.
