7 causes of bone spurs in the back
- KC Rehab Team
- 18 hours ago
- 4 min read
Bone spurs can develop in many places throughout your body, from your shoulders to your feet. If you’ve been dealing with ongoing back stiffness, discomfort or limited movement, you may have bone spurs that formed in your back.
Bone spurs are a common change that can happen in the spine over time, especially over the age of 50.
Understanding what may contribute to bone spur development can help you make sense of your symptoms — and guide your next steps toward feeling and moving better. Read on to learn the basics about the condition before we talk about possible causes of bone spurs in the back.
What are bone spurs in the back?
Bone spurs, also called osteophytes, are small bony growths that can develop along the edges of bones — often where joints or discs are under stress. In the spine, they may form along the vertebrae or near the discs.
Bone spurs themselves don’t always cause symptoms. However, in some cases, the growths can affect nearby nerves or limit normal joint movement, leading to back pain, stiffness or numbness that may impact your everyday functions.
7 common causes of bone spurs in the back
Bone spurs don’t usually appear overnight. They tend to develop gradually in response to changes or stress in the spine over time.
Age-related wear and tear
As we get older, the spine naturally goes through changes. The discs may lose some of their height and hydration, and the joints may experience more friction.
In response, the body may form bone spurs as a way to stabilize the area. This process is often associated with conditions like osteoarthritis.
Osteoarthritis in the spine
Osteoarthritis is one of the most common contributors to bone spurs in the back. It involves gradual breakdown of cartilage in the joints.
As cartilage wears down, bones may begin to rub together more. The body may respond by forming extra bone in an attempt to protect or stabilize the joint.
Degenerative disc changes
Spinal discs act as cushions between the vertebrae. Over time, these discs can lose height or develop small tears.
These changes can increase pressure on nearby joints and bones, which may contribute to bone spur formation. Degenerative disc changes are common and may or may not cause noticeable symptoms.
Repetitive stress or overuse
Certain activities or jobs that involve repeated bending, lifting or twisting can place ongoing stress on the spine.
Over time, this repeated load may contribute to joint irritation or wear, which may be associated with the development of bone spurs.
Previous injury
A past back injury — such as a strain, sprain or trauma — can change how the spine moves and handles bearing weight.
In some cases, the body may respond to these changes by forming bone spurs as part of a healing or stabilization process.
Poor movement patterns or posture
Posture and movement habits can influence how forces are distributed through your spine.
Positions that consistently place more stress on certain areas — like prolonged sitting with poor support — may contribute to joint irritation over time. This may be associated with changes like bone spur formation.
Spinal conditions or structural changes
Certain spinal conditions, such as spinal stenosis or scoliosis, can alter the alignment and mechanics of the spine.
These changes may increase stress on specific joints, which may be linked to the development of bone spurs in those areas.
How physical therapy may help bone spurs in your back
Physical therapy focuses on improving how your body moves, supports itself and responds to stress. Even when there are structural changes like bone spurs, movement-based care can often help manage symptoms and improve function.
A physical therapist may help you:
Improve spinal mobility and flexibility
Build strength in muscles that support your back
Adjust movement patterns that may be contributing to stress
Learn strategies to reduce strain during daily activities
Treatment for bone spurs is always individualized. The goal isn’t to “remove” bone spurs, but to help your body move more comfortably and efficiently around them.
KC Rehab can help alleviate bone spur symptoms
If you’re experiencing bone spur symptoms that interfere with work, sleep or daily activities, physical therapy can help you explore safe, effective options for managing your symptoms.
At KC Rehab, we’ll create a personalized physical therapy treatment plan that may incorporate targeted exercises, joint mobilization and lifestyle adjustments. Even though you can’t get rid of bone spurs in your back, you can minimize their impact on your overall quality of life.
Contact our team today for more information or to schedule an initial appointment.
FAQs about bone spurs in the back
What causes bone spurs in the back to form?
Bone spurs often develop in response to stress, wear or changes in the spine. Common factors include aging, osteoarthritis and repetitive movement patterns.
Are bone spurs in the back always painful?
No, bone spurs don’t always cause pain. Some people have them without symptoms. Pain may occur if nearby nerves or joints are affected.
Can bone spurs go away on their own?
Bone spurs typically don’t go away on their own. However, symptoms associated with them can often be managed with appropriate care and movement strategies.
How are bone spurs in the back diagnosed?
A healthcare provider may use imaging, such as X-rays, along with a physical exam to better understand what’s happening in your spine.
Can physical therapy help with bone spurs?
Physical therapy may help improve movement, reduce strain on the spine and manage symptoms — even if bone spurs are present.
What are bone spurs, in simple terms?
Bone spurs are small bony growths that can form along the edges of bones, often where joints experience stress or wear.
Are bone spurs a sign of arthritis?
Bone spurs are commonly associated with osteoarthritis, but not everyone with bone spurs has significant arthritis symptoms.
Do bone spurs mean I need surgery?
Not necessarily. Many people manage symptoms without surgery. Treatment depends on your specific symptoms and how they affect your daily life.
What does nerve-related pain from bone spurs feel like?
If a nerve is affected, symptoms may include tingling, numbness or weakness. These symptoms can also be linked to other conditions, so evaluation is important.
When should I see a physical therapist for back pain?
If your pain persists, worsens or limits your ability to move or function, a physical therapist can help assess your condition and guide next steps.