Cleveland Clinic Doctor examining a patient's foot.

Bone Spurs

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Throughout your life, you take a lot of steps. The average person who lives to be 80 years old will walk the equivalent of five times around the world.

That’s a lot of steps. So, it’s not surprising that many people develop foot and ankle problems, including bone spurs.

Although bone spurs can develop on the hands, knees and spine, they’re particularly common on the foot — especially the heel, big toe and ankle. Bone spurs can cause the inflamed joint in your foot to become tender and painful, making it difficult to wear certain shoes, walk and sometimes even to stand.

At Cleveland Clinic, our specialists provide leading edge care for all types of foot and ankle conditions, including bone spurs.

Why Choose Cleveland Clinic for Bone Spur Care?

Demonstrated expertise:

Our specialists have extensive training in diagnosing and treating a wide range of foot and ankle issues, as well as treating them with both nonsurgical and surgical options.

Collaborative care:

At Cleveland Clinic, you’ll have access to our team of podiatrists (foot experts), foot and ankle surgeons and rehabilitation specialists. We work as a team to make sure you receive the best possible treatment and outcome. Meet our team.

Innovation and research:

Our specialists use the newest and most advanced procedures and techniques for foot and ankle care. You can rest assured that you’ll receive the best and most current treatment options available.

National recognition:

Cleveland Clinic is a trusted healthcare leader. We're recognized in the U.S. and throughout the world for our expertise and care.

Bone Spur Diagnosis at Cleveland Clinic

If you have pain, stiffness, loss of motion or numbness near a joint on your foot or ankle, it’s important to see your healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis. A bone spur near the big toe joint is often mistaken for a bunion. While these two issues may feel similar, the treatment is different if you have a bone spur.

At your appointment, your provider may:

Ask you to describe your symptoms.
Ask you about your medical history and any current medical conditions.
Ask you how much pain you’re experiencing.
Ask if you’ve tried any methods to reduce the pain.
Perform a physical exam.
Test your joint’s range of motion and strength.
Order an X-ray to see if you have a bone spur. Additional tests, such as an ultrasound, MRI or CT scan, may be needed.

Providers Who Treat Bone Spurs

Locations

Our healthcare providers see patients at convenient locations throughout Northeast Ohio, Florida and London.

Bone Spur Treatment at Cleveland Clinic

Sometimes bone spurs aren’t painful and they’re only found when treating another condition. When this happens, no treatment is typically needed. However, if the bone spur is causing you discomfort or limiting your ability to move, your healthcare provider may first recommend the following nonsurgical ways to ease the symptoms:

Using ice packs to reduce swelling.
Using over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen (Advil® or Motrin®).
Wearing supportive, properly fitting shoes or using shoe inserts.
Losing weight to decrease joint and bone stress.

If these treatments don’t work, your provider may recommend:

Physical therapy to strengthen the muscles around the affected joint.
Prescription medications or a cortisone shot to ease pain and swelling.
Surgery may be recommended if you’re still experiencing painful symptoms after a year of nonsurgical treatment.

Taking the Next Step

Most of us are on our feet a lot, and foot pain can severely impact daily life. If you can’t find relief on your own, it’s important to call your healthcare provider and get the help you need. Most foot and ankle conditions — including bone spurs — can be remedied, so there’s no reason to live with discomfort.