Spur

Spur (medicine)

Spur (pronounced: /spɜːr/) is a term used in medicine to refer to an abnormal outgrowth or projection from a bone, often caused by osteoarthritis or inflammation.

Etymology

The term 'spur' originates from the Old English 'spura', which means a sharp projection. In a medical context, it was first used in the 19th century to describe bony outgrowths.

Types of Spurs

There are several types of spurs that can occur in different parts of the body:

• Heel spurs: These are bony outgrowths that occur on the underside of the heel bone. They are often associated with plantar fasciitis.

• Bone spurs: Also known as osteophytes, these are bony projections that form along the edges of bones, often in the joints. They are commonly found in the spine, hips, knees, and feet.

Symptoms

Spurs themselves often do not cause symptoms. However, they can lead to pain and loss of function if they press on nerves, blood vessels, or other structures. The symptoms can vary depending on the location of the spur.

Treatment

Treatment for spurs often involves managing the symptoms and underlying conditions that cause them. This can include physical therapy, medication, and in some cases, surgery.

Related Terms

• Osteophyte
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Osteoarthritis
• Inflammation

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Spur
• Wikipedia's article - Spur

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