What is a bone spur in the shoulder?
Bone spurs, also known as osteophytes, are projections along the surface of any bone. By themselves, bone spurs on the shoulder are not harmful or painful. However, they can create problems on adjacent tissues, joints and ligaments. Tendons attached to the rotator cuff can tear from bone spurs.SignificanceThe formation of bone spurs can be indicative of a disease or illness. Causes of bone spurs include osteoarthritis, injury or the normal aging process.FeaturesShoulders, in particular, are prone to bone spurs because of their anatomical features. The shoulder joint is a complex structure of muscles, tendons, ligaments and bones.EffectsAthletes and workers who engage in repetitive tasks that stress the shoulders can develop bone spurs. The movement of the bones against the rotator cuff’s tendons creates a bone spur.EffectsShoulder bone spurs can cause pain, irritation, inflammation and tearing of the rotator tendon. Doctors diagnose spurs by physical examination, X-rays, computerized t
