what causes bone spurs

Bone spurs, also known as osteophytes, are bony growths that form on bones, usually near joints, and can cause damage to bones, muscles, or tendons. The main cause of bone spurs is joint damage associated with osteoarthritis, which breaks down the cartilage cushioning the ends of bones, and the body attempts to repair the loss by creating bone spurs near the damaged area. Bone spurs can also form in response to pressure, rubbing, or stress that continues over a long period of time, such as tight ligaments, repetitive use, or trauma. Spurs can develop on any bone, but they are most common in the neck, shoulders, elbows, spine, hips, knees, and heels. Spurs themselves are not painful, but they can cause pain if they rub on a nerve or other tissue.