Treatment options for bone spurs Non-surgical treatment for bone spurs Most patients with mild or moderate nerve compression and irritation from bone spurs can manage their symptoms effectively with conservative care, such as: Medication, such as anti-inflammatory medications and muscle relaxant pain medications, for approximately 4 to 6 weeks. Activity may flare up inflammation in the joints, thus rest is initially appropriate. After 1-2 weeks, physical therapy, exercise and manipulation often alleviates the painful joint conditions. These modalities attempt to restore flexibility and strength to the neck and back, improving posture and possibly decreasing the compression on the nerves. However, nerve compression with radiating pain into an arm and leg should be clinically investigated before beginning any form of rehabilitation therapies. Cortisone (epidural steroid) injections have potential therapeutic value for some patients with facet joint inflammation by reducing the joint swelling and improving spinal pain and radiating extremity pain syndromes. The results are usually only temporary, but repeat injections maybe indicated. Spine specialist consultation is appropriate if these conservative measures to treat bone spurs fail. Early referral is appropriate if patients suffer from severe pain or there is clinical evidence of nerve compression and damage. Spine surgery for bone spurs Surgery (such as a laminectomy) relieves the pain and neurological symptoms by removing the bone spurs and thickened ligaments causing painful nerve compression. The majority of patients who undergo surgery for bone spurs experience good results, often gaining years of relief and improved quality of life. Studies have shown that age is not a major factor in determining whether a person will benefit from spine surgery for bone spurs. Medical conditions often associated with age, such as high blood pressure, diabetes and heart disease can influence surgical risks and slow the recovery processes. Spine surgery for bone spurs becomes necessary if nerve or spinal cord compression is either causing unremitting pain or motor loss is documented on examination. Discuss the risks and benefits of the various approaches to spine surgery with your surgical consultant. By: John H. Schneider, MD October 10, 2000