The development of a bone spur is fairly common after age 60, and is often, though not always, accompanied by pain or tenderness in the affected joint. Joints represent the intersection of bone, muscle, ligaments, and tendons, and are thus susceptible to injury from any of these sources. Often, such physical injuries or inflammation have the secondary effect of spur formation. In particular, there is a very striking relationship between occurrence of arthritis, which is essentially an inflammatory disease, and osteophytosis (spur development) in the problematic joint. Spurs may gradually grow on the upper part of the shoulder blade, called the acromion. Physical trauma and pre-existing conditions such as tendonitis or impingement are often associated with shoulder spurs. Misalignment of the shoulder blade can irritate local ligaments, and the resulting spur causes moderate to severe pain, depending on the arm’s position.
Symptoms
- Localized pain, especially when shoulder is moved through range of motion
- Pain never leaves, but can be severe at times
- Tenderness around specific part of shoulder
Causes and Risk Factors
Causes
- Pre-existing condition, such as impingement or tendonitis.
- Overuse
- Muscle weakness
Risk Factors
- Athletes who perform frequent overhead motions, such as water polo and basketball players
- Overuse of the shoulder by repeated throwing or overhead exercise
Treatment
Immediate Action:
- Call your doctor.
- Take aspirin or an anti-inflammatory medication, such as ibuprofen, if needed.
- Ice the wound for 20 minutes, as heat tends to aggravate hurt tendons.
- Avoid motions that cause sharp pain.
- At your doctor’s advice, do low-impact exercises to increase range of motion.
See your doctor...
If: the problem persists or recurs.
To: get physical therapy, specific braces, and consider whether surgery is necessary.The presence of a spur can be easily determined via X-ray, and there are a variety of ways to pursue treatment. Physicians will usually treat the underlying problem that has created the spur, while anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen and cortisone may be administered to alleviate pain and discomfort. In some cases, (particularly for shoulder spurs), surgery may be suggested to smooth down the protruding area and ease abrasion. A rehabilitation program of gradually increased physical activity may also be advised after the fundamental issue has been resolved.
Last updated: 17-Jan-03
