Bone Spurs: Seeking Effective Treatment for Chronic Pain

Treatment for bone spurs?

Hello Doctor: I was diagnosed with a lumbar bone spur in October 2003 at Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital.
However, the physical therapist was unclear about the main cause of my pain, and my attending physician was also unable to provide a correct diagnosis.
After less than three months of rehabilitation, I gave up.
In October 2004, I sought treatment again due to a sudden onset of back pain.
Since my previous doctor was no longer available, I made an appointment with a new physician in the same rehabilitation department.
I had another X-ray taken and shared my medical history, asking the doctor if my pain was related to the bone spur.
However, the doctor said it was not significantly related! The pain persisted, accompanied by numbness and electric shock-like sensations.
Despite trying heat therapy, electrical stimulation, and stretching, there was no improvement...
so I gave up again.
Now, the frequency of my pain episodes is increasing.
Which specialty should I consult for the right treatment? I live in Shulin.
Can you recommend a physician for me to see? Thank you.

Hai Er, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/01/11

Dr. Xu Zhenrong reply Rehabilitation

Dear Miss Hsieh,
In your letter, you mentioned that in October 2003, an examination at Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital revealed bone spur formation causing lower back pain, and that rehabilitation treatment seemed to have no improvement.
In addition to the pain, you also experience numbness and electric shock-like sensations, which suggest the possibility of lumbar nerve root compression.
Since you have already undergone rehabilitation treatment, it may be worthwhile to consider consulting a spine orthopedic specialist (Dr.
Lin Jun-Fu is available at our hospital) or a neurosurgeon for further imaging and neurological examinations, followed by appropriate management of your condition.
I hope for your speedy recovery.
Sincerely,
Hsu Chen-Jung
Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Taipei Hospital

Reply Date: 2005/01/11

More Info

Understanding bone spurs, particularly in the context of chronic pain, can be quite complex. Bone spurs, or osteophytes, are bony projections that develop along the edges of bones, often in response to joint damage or degeneration. They are commonly associated with conditions like osteoarthritis and can occur in various parts of the body, including the spine, shoulders, and knees. While bone spurs themselves may not always cause pain, they can lead to discomfort when they impinge on nearby nerves or tissues.

In your case, it seems that despite multiple consultations and treatments, the source of your pain remains unclear. This is not uncommon, as chronic pain can be multifactorial. It may stem from the bone spurs themselves, but it could also be related to other underlying conditions such as muscle strain, ligament issues, or even nerve compression. The symptoms you describe, including numbness and electric shock-like pain, suggest that there may be nerve involvement, which could be due to the bone spurs or other spinal issues.

Given your history and the persistence of your symptoms, it would be advisable to seek a comprehensive evaluation from a specialist. A neurologist or an orthopedic spine specialist would be appropriate choices, as they can provide insights into both the neurological and musculoskeletal aspects of your condition. They may recommend advanced imaging studies, such as an MRI, to get a clearer picture of the spinal structures and any potential nerve compression.

In terms of treatment, there are several options available for managing chronic pain associated with bone spurs. These may include:
1. Physical Therapy: A tailored physical therapy program can help strengthen the muscles around the affected area, improve flexibility, and alleviate pain. A physical therapist can also provide education on proper body mechanics to prevent further injury.

2. Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help reduce inflammation and pain. In some cases, corticosteroid injections may be recommended to provide temporary relief.

3. Alternative Therapies: Techniques such as acupuncture, chiropractic care, or massage therapy may offer additional relief for some individuals.

4. Surgical Options: If conservative treatments fail and the pain significantly impacts your quality of life, surgical intervention may be considered. This could involve removing the bone spurs or addressing any underlying spinal issues.

5. Lifestyle Modifications: Maintaining a healthy weight, engaging in regular low-impact exercise, and avoiding activities that exacerbate your pain can also be beneficial.

It's essential to have open communication with your healthcare providers about your symptoms and treatment preferences. If you feel that your current providers are not addressing your concerns adequately, it may be worthwhile to seek a second opinion.
In conclusion, chronic pain related to bone spurs can be challenging to manage, but with the right approach and a multidisciplinary team, you can find effective strategies to alleviate your discomfort. If you're located in Shulin, consider looking for a reputable orthopedic or neurologist in your area who specializes in spine health. They can provide the necessary evaluations and help you develop a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your needs.

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