How Long Does a Bone Spur on the Side of Your Foot Last?
Bone spurs on the foot do not go away on their own, although they can be surgically removed if necessary, according to WebMD. Bone spurs on the foot are normally caused by wearing shoes that do not fit, being overweight or participating in activities such as dancing that cause stress to the foot.
Bone spurs form as a result of tight ligaments; they are the body’s way of repairing itself, explains WebMD. Normally, bone spurs form over a long period of time in response to stress, rubbing or pressure, but in some cases, they form as a natural part of the aging process. Bone spurs themselves do not cause symptoms, and many people are not aware they have them. They can cause corns and calluses on the feet as the body creates extra tissue to pad the spur, and they can also press on other bones or tissues, which causes swelling and pain as the tissue breaks down.
Treatment is not normally needed unless the bone spurs are causing pain or other issues, notes WebMD. Sometimes, people with bone spurs are advised to lose weight, stretch the foot or receive a massage. Other treatments include padding the area of the foot where the bone spur is located, wearing different shoes or receiving a corticosteroid injection. When the bone spur causes severe problems, surgical intervention is an option.
