spur formation to exist. These are the areas in the rear of each vertebral bone which connect to the vertebrae above and below. Degeneration in these joints is almost universal in elderly adults and can occur in much younger adults, as well.
Bone spurs can cause some discomfort if the degeneration is severe, but this pain is generally dull, localized and controllable.
Severe spinal joint symptoms may result from a bone spur compressing a spinal nerve root. Pinched nerves are diagnosed far more often than they actually occur, but when induced by an osteophyte, they may require invasive treatment.
Many of these diagnoses, called neuroforaminal stenosis, are mistakenly identified as compressing a nerve. While a decrease in the size of the foraminal openings is a common occurrence in aging patients, the entire space would need to be virtually sealed off in order to affect the nerve root. This seldom occurs, but when it does, will enact a very predictable pattern of serious symptoms. Usually pain and tingling will begin the expression, followed by extended periods of objective numbness and weakness in the area served by the affected nerve tissue.
Getting older can be tough on the body, difficult for the mind and insulting to the spirit. There is no doubt that there are some aches and pains associated with aging, both physical and emotional.
Serious bone spur pain is not common and is usually used as a diagnosis to explain otherwise idiopathic back pain in an older patient. As with many other spinal conditions, bone spurs are used as scapegoats by the back pain industry.
There are few patients with serious pain and symptoms directly linked to their vertebral spur formations. Another common condition that affects many patients with misdiagnosed bone spur formation is psychoemotional back pain due to repressed issues. These issues may or may not be age-related, but many elderly patients do suffer from anxiety and emotional rage simply due to the effects of age on their bodies, minds and lives. This is always a point to consider, especially when symptoms do not resolve despite active and seemingly effective treatment.