A bone spur is a small outgrowth of bone that can occur on any bone in the body. They are often found in joints and can cause pain and discomfort. Bone spurs can be caused by a variety of factors, including age, injury, and arthritis.
Definitions
A bone spur is a bony growth that develops on the surface of a bone. It is also called an osteophyte. Bone spurs can develop on any bone in the body, but they are most commonly found in joints.
Origin
Bone spurs can develop as a result of aging, injury, or disease. As we age, the cartilage in our joints can wear down, which can cause bone spurs to form. Injuries to the bones or joints can also cause bone spurs to develop. Certain diseases, such as arthritis, can also cause bone spurs.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to Merriam-Webster, a bone spur is “a small, bony growth that forms on a bone, especially on a joint.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines a bone spur as “a small, projecting growth of bone, usually at the edge of a bone, that may cause pain or discomfort.”
Associations
Bone spurs are often associated with joint pain and inflammation. They can also be a sign of aging or arthritis. In some cases, bone spurs can cause nerve compression, which can lead to numbness and tingling in the affected area.
Synonyms
Some synonyms for bone spur include osteophyte, exostosis, and spur.
Antonyms
There are no antonyms for bone spur.
The same root words
The root words for bone spur are “bone” and “spur.” Bone refers to the hard, dense tissue that makes up the skeleton, while spur refers to a pointed projection or growth.
Example Sentences
- The X-ray showed a bone spur on my knee joint.
- The doctor said the bone spur on my foot was causing my heel pain.
- My grandmother has bone spurs in her hands from years of arthritis.
- The athlete had to have surgery to remove a bone spur from his shoulder.
- The bone spur on my spine is causing pressure on my nerves.