What are osteophytes?

Osteophytes 8 bone growths) represent a common phenomenon associated with changes in the spine. Their presence is often associated with the normal aging process, but they can also develop as a result of various conditions and diseases of the spine. Ossification (or osteophytes) are not painful in themselves. However, as you probably know, when touching from an adjacent nerve or narrowing the spaces between the vertebrae through which the nerve passes can cause considerable pain.

The spine is not a flat column, but forms the shape of the letter S. Inside each vertebra there is cartilage, elastic tissue that protects the spine when moving and reduces the load on the joint. The intervertebral disc is an elastic formation located between two vertebrae. Diskus accumulates the load on the spine when it is affected by forces both at rest and during movement.

WHY DO OSTEOPHYTES FORM?

One of the main causes of the formation of osteophytes is spinal osteoarthritis, a condition characterized by degeneration of any part of the spine, especially the facet joints. When the cartilage lining these joints begins to deteriorate, there is friction of the bone against the bone and additional pressure on the spinal joints. In response to this stress, the body can form osteophytes to redistribute weight and reduce range of motion, thereby protecting bone and reducing further stress on the joints.

Another significant cause of osteophytes is degenerative disc disease. The discs in the spine act as shock absorbers and help maintain the stability of the spine. When disc degeneration occurs, increased instability of the spine occurs, which can cause the formation of osteophytes. In addition, inflammation of soft tissues and ligaments around the vertebrae can trigger the formation of osteophytes in places where these ligaments attach to the bone.

It is important to understand that osteophytes are not always caused only by aging or degenerative processes. They can also develop as a result of injuries, chronic stress or other diseases that cause inflammation or instability of the spine.

Symptoms associated with osteophytes may include pain, stiffness and reduced range of motion in the affected area of the spine. These symptoms are often more pronounced in the morning and can worsen during the day, but can be relieved with movement and activity.

The diagnosis of osteophytes is usually made by a combination of physical examination, X-rays and other diagnostic tests, depending on the needs of the patient and the severity of the symptoms.