What Is Degenerative Joint Disease?
Reviewed: Dr. Gromatzky
4. Bone Spurs
As the cartilage in your joints is gradually worn down, the body attempts to repair the problem, and this often does not go as planned. In some cases, bone spurs can develop, and these can make things quite a bit worse for the patient. Known as osteophytes, these bone spurs are small growths of bone that project out from the main bone.
Bone spurs will often accompany degenerative joint disease, and it can worsen already uncomfortable symptoms. The patient’s movement is likely to be limited even more, while bone spurs can also be very painful. Bone spurs don’t always cause symptoms, but surgery may be necessary in a small number of cases.
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