The bone spur can be described as the expansion of the bone. It usually occurs when bone spurs from two to three bones join. Bone spurs develop as the body attempts to heal itself. Bone spurs may appear as a lump or bump under the skin.
The likelihood of developing a bone spur within the foot increases as you age. The impact it has on your daily routine is contingent on the extent. Many people don’t even realize there’s an increase in bone density on their feet. Others suffer from chronic pain that makes it hard to stand, walk or even wear shoes.
What is the cause of bone spurs to the foot?
A bone spur located on top of the foot can be caused by osteoarthritis, which is a form of arthritis. In this case, the cartilage between bones may degrade in time. To compensate for the loss of cartilage, the body creates additional bone growths called bone spurs.
Osteoarthritis can be a single reason that can cause the formation of a bone spur at the top of the foot. Other factors can lead to the degeneration of cartilage, leading to the development of osteoporosis.
Activities that may cause bone spurs are running, dancing, and exercising. Other reasons include:
- Foot injury
- Obesity or being overweight
- Wearing tight-fitting shoes
Bone spurs are commonplace in the foot because of the pressure put on the bones.
It will likely be located on the mid-foot if you’ve got bone spurs on foot. There is also the possibility of developing a trigger on your toe or heel spur.
Although bone spurs are prevalent on the feet, they can develop in other areas of the body, for example:
- knees
- hips
- spine
- shoulder
- ankle
Bone foot growth risk elements
A variety of factors increase the likelihood that a spur of bone develops at the foot. Apart from osteoarthritis, the risks include:
- Age. The older you are, the greater your likelihood of developing the bone spur. Cartilage deteriorates when you get older, and the gradual wear and tear trigger the body to make more bone heal itself.
- Physical exercise. Regular physical activity can help keep a healthy weight and improve your energy levels. However, it also puts an extra strain on your foot, which can put you at risk of developing bone spurs.
- You are wearing shoes that are too tight. Tight shoes can make your toes uncomfortable and cause continual friction on your feet and your toes.
- Injuries. Bone spurs can appear after minor trauma such as a bruise or following an injury like a fracture.
- Overweight. Excess weight puts an additional strain on your feet and other bones. The result is that your cartilage begins to degrade more quickly, increasing bone spur.
- The flat foot. Having a low or no arch in your feet could result in your whole foot being in contact with the floor when you stand. This places additional stress on your joints and can cause numerous issues, like blisters, hammertoe bunions, hammertoes or bone spurs.
Bone spur symptoms
Bone spurs don’t always cause symptoms. It is possible to suffer from one without realizing it. However, some people suffer from pain or soreness at the midfoot top. It is different for each person, and it can worsen over time.
Other signs associated with a spur bone in the foot are:
- The swelling and redness
- Stiffness
- restricted mobility in joints
- corns
- difficulties standing or walking
How do bone spurs can be diagnosed
Visit a physician if you experience foot pain getting worse or does not improve. A doctor will examine your feet and joints to determine the exact location of the pain and determine the mobility.
Your doctor may use scans (which provides detailed images of joints within the feet of your) to determine if you have the presence of a bone spur. The options include X-rays, CT scans or MRI.
Treatment of bone spurs on the top of your foot
It’s unnecessary to treat the bone spur, which doesn’t cause symptoms. Because a bone spur does not heal on its own, treatment options to alleviate pain and discomfort include:
Weight loss
Weight loss reduces the pressure on the bones in your feet. It also eases discomfort that is caused by bone spurs. Here are some suggestions:
- exercising for at least 30 minutes, three times per week
- reduce your calorie intake
- practice portion control
- Consume more fruits, vegetables, lean meats and whole grains
- Reduce your intake of sweets, fried and fried foods and other fatty food items.
Change your shoes or put on padding.
Changes in your footwear can help relieve the symptoms of a bone spur, especially if you spend a lot of time in your shoes.
Make sure you choose shoes that aren’t snug or too loose and don’t snag your toes. Choose shoes with a square or rounded toe to give you more space. Consider adding padding to your shoes to alleviate the pressure for those with a lower arch.
Ice therapy and heat therapy
Alternating between heat and ice therapy may help reduce the pain associated with bone spurs. Heating can ease stiffness and discomfort, while ice therapy can reduce swelling and inflammation. Put a cold compress and heating pad in your heel for between 10 and 15 minutes, a few times every day.
Cortisone injection
Consult a physician to determine if you’re eligible for a cortisone injection that aids in reducing inflammation. A doctor injects the medicine right into the bone, easing stiffness, pain, and swelling.
Walking boots
Walking boots are made to safeguard the foot following an injury or surgical procedure. They can also alleviate pain and pressure caused by a bone spur.
Pain relief
The over-the-counter pain relievers (ibuprofen Acetaminophen, acetaminophen or naproxen sodium) can reduce the pain and inflammation of the bone spur. Use as directed.
Bone spur on the top of foot surgical procedure
A doctor might recommend the removal of the bone spur. In general, surgery is an option if the bone spur is causing severe discomfort or restricts mobility.
Prevention of osteoporosis at the sole
It is possible that you cannot prevent bone spurs when you suffer from osteoarthritis. However, you can reduce your chance of developing them by being healthy and weight-bearing, lowering the pressure on your joints, and wearing the appropriate types of shoes. If your feet are flat, wear insoles specifically made to help support the arch.
The main takeaway
The bone spurs may make it hard to walk or put on shoes, so be aware of the signs of this disease. Consult a physician if you feel discomfort or suspect that you have a bone spur at the upper part of the foot.
Between medications or making adjustments, you can reduce your symptoms and stop the growth of a bone spur from becoming worse.