Osteophytes are bony lumps (bone spurs) that grow on the bones of the spine or around the joints. They often form next to joints affected by osteoarthritis, a condition that causes joints to become painful and stiff.

Are bone spurs and calcium deposits the same thing?

What do you need to know? Osteophytes, or bone spurs, are calcium deposits found on the bone, particularly on or around joints. Over time, the cartilage that cushions your foot and toe joints break down due to wear and tear—this is called osteoarthritis.

Are bone spurs calcification?

The inflammation at the enthesis affects the vertebra's bone growth. Vertebral bone cells are deposited where they would not be normally, causing the enthesis tissue to calcify. This calcification forms a bone spur.