Bone Spur In Shoulder
A bone spur in your shoulder is also called an osteophyte and is often mentioned in radiology reports. This small bony growth can develop along the edges of bones in your shoulder joint. While sometimes painful, these growths are often a natural response to joint changes. This article will discuss what causes shoulder bone spurs, how they’re diagnosed through imaging, and what treatment options exist.
What Is a Shoulder Bone Spur?
Shoulder bone spurs are small, smooth outgrowths of extra bone that form along the edges of bones in your shoulder. The shoulder is a complex joint where multiple bones connect: the humerus (upper arm bone), scapula (shoulder blade), and clavicle (collarbone). Bone spurs can develop at any of these connection points.
These bony projections develop gradually over time, usually as a result of joint damage, inflammation, or the natural aging process. They form when your body attempts to repair damage by creating new bone tissue. While many people have bone spurs without realizing it, others experience pain and limited mobility.
Common Causes of Shoulder Bone Spurs
Several factors can contribute to the development of bone spurs in your shoulder:
Osteoarthritis
The most common cause of shoulder bone spurs is osteoarthritis. As you age, the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of your bones gradually wears down. Your body responds to this cartilage loss by growing bone spurs along the edges of the joint.
Rotator Cuff Injuries
Repeated stress on the rotator cuff tendons can lead to inflammation and eventually bone spur formation. Athletes who perform overhead motions (like baseball pitchers, swimmers, and tennis players) are particularly susceptible.
Shoulder Impingement Syndrome
When the tendons of the rotator cuff become trapped and compressed during shoulder movements, the resulting inflammation can trigger bone spur growth.
Previous Shoulder Trauma
A history of shoulder injuries, fractures, or dislocations increases the risk of developing bone spurs as the body attempts to stabilize and heal the damaged joint.
Diagnosing Shoulder Bone Spurs Through Imaging
Medical imaging plays an important role in diagnosing bone spurs in the shoulder. Your doctor may recommend one or more of the following imaging techniques:
X-Ray Imaging
X-rays are usually the first imaging test used to look for bone spurs. These quick, painless tests create pictures of the dense structures in your shoulder, making bone spurs relatively easy to identify. On an X-ray, bone spurs appear as small, pointed or hook-like projections extending from the normal bone surface.
This finding often indicates long-term joint changes rather than an acute problem that developed overnight. Radiologists typically note bone spurs when evaluating shoulder X-rays for arthritis or unexplained pain.
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)
While X-rays show bone well, MRI scans are best at revealing soft tissue problems that often accompany bone spurs. An MRI can show:
- The extent of inflammation around the bone spur
- Whether the spur is compressing nearby tendons or nerves
- The condition of cartilage in the joint
- Signs of rotator cuff tears or other soft tissue injuries
MRI provides a more comprehensive picture of how the bone spur affects surrounding structures and helps determine the most appropriate treatment approach.
CT (Computed Tomography) Scan
CT scans combine X-ray images taken from multiple angles to create detailed cross-sectional views of your shoulder. These scans are particularly valuable for:
- Visualizing bone spurs in three dimensions
- Planning surgical procedures when necessary
- Assessing fractures or other bone abnormalities that might be contributing to spur formation
CT scans offer superior detail of bone structures compared to regular X-rays, making them ideal for complicated cases.
Ultrasound
Ultrasound imaging uses sound waves to create real-time images of soft tissues and can help assess whether a bone spur is causing:
- Tendon inflammation
- Fluid buildup around the joint
- Dynamic impingement during shoulder movement
The advantage of ultrasound is that it allows for examination of the shoulder while in motion, potentially revealing problems that static imaging might miss.
Symptoms of Shoulder Bone Spurs
Many people with shoulder bone spurs experience no symptoms at all. The presence of a bone spur on your imaging doesn’t necessarily mean it’s causing your shoulder pain. When symptoms do occur, they may include:
Pain and Tenderness
Pain typically develops gradually and worsens with certain movements, especially reaching overhead or behind your back.
Reduced Range of Motion
As bone spurs grow, they can limit how far you can move your shoulder in certain directions.
Shoulder Weakness
You might notice decreased strength, particularly when lifting objects or performing routine activities like brushing your hair.
Grinding or Popping Sensations
These mechanical symptoms can occur when the bone spur interferes with smooth joint movement.
Swelling and Inflammation
The tissues surrounding the bone spur may become irritated and inflamed.
Treatment Options for Shoulder Bone Spurs
Treatment for shoulder bone spurs depends on your symptoms and how much they affect your daily activities. Options include:
Conservative Treatments
For mild to moderate symptoms, non-surgical approaches are typically tried first:
- Rest and activity modification
- Ice and heat therapy
- Over-the-counter pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications
- Physical therapy to strengthen shoulder muscles and improve range of motion
- Corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation
Surgical Interventions
If conservative treatments don’t provide relief, your doctor might recommend surgery:
- Arthroscopic surgery: A minimally invasive procedure where small instruments are inserted through tiny incisions to remove the bone spur
- Open surgery: Traditional surgery that may be necessary for larger or more complex bone spurs
- Shoulder joint replacement: In severe cases with extensive arthritis and multiple bone spurs
When to See a Doctor
Consult with a doctor if you experience:
- Persistent shoulder pain lasting more than a few weeks
- Pain that worsens with specific movements
- Limited shoulder mobility affecting daily activities
- Shoulder weakness or instability
- Pain that disrupts your sleep
Early intervention can prevent further joint damage and help manage symptoms effectively.
Conclusion
Diagnosis of a bone spur can be made through imaging techniques like X-rays, MRI, and CT scans. Many people with shoulder bone spurs can manage their condition effectively with conservative treatments, while others may benefit from surgical intervention. By understanding what these bony growths are and how they’re treated, you can work with your healthcare team to maintain shoulder function and minimize pain.
References
- https://www.healthline.com/health/bone-spurs-shoulder
- https://melbournearmclinic.com.au/bone-spurs-in-shoulder/
- https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/10395-bone-spurs-osteophytes