What does posterior osteophytes mean?

Posterior osteophytes: Bone spurs that develop at the back of the spine. Endplate osteophytes: Bone spurs that develop at the top or bottom edges of the vertebrae where they interact with the disc.

What does posterior disc osteophyte complex mean?

Disc osteophyte complex (also known as disc osteophyte bar) is a term used on MRI of the cervical spine to denote the presence of disc protrusion and/or marginal endplate osteophytes resulting in narrowing of the cervical canal.

What causes osteophytes in neck?

Bone spurs can be caused by wear and tear, and aging-related conditions, such as degenerative disc disease, osteoarthritis (spondylosis) and spinal stenosis. It is thought that osteophyte formation is the body’s attempt to repair itself and may be triggered in response to degenerative changes.

Is thoracic spondylosis a disability?

If you are suffering from Spondylosis you may qualify for disability benefits. The SSA recognizes Spondylosis in its Blue Book under Section 1.04. To qualify for Social Security Disability benefits a person must meet the requirements of the listing or prove that they are unable to work.

Can bone spurs in neck cause breathing problems?

If large bone spurs form in the neck, in rare cases they may cause difficulty breathing or trouble swallowing.

What are symptoms of cervical osteophytes in neck?

If cervical osteophytes impinge on any of the nerves in the cervical spine, it can cause cervical radiculopathy symptoms. Symptoms of Bone Spurs in the Neck. People who do experience problems associated with cervical bone spurs may exhibit a wide range of symptoms, including but not limited to: Dull neck pain.

Can a cervical osteophyte cause cervical radiculopathy?

However, symptoms may occur if the osteophytes encroach upon the individual spinal nerves, the spinal cord itself, the vertebral discs, or the blood vessels in the region of the cervical vertebral column. If cervical osteophytes impinge on any of the nerves in the cervical spine, it can cause cervical radiculopathy symptoms.

Is it normal to have osteophytes in the spine?

Osteophytes in the spine are a normal sign of aging and can be associated with conditions such as degenerative disc disease, osteoarthritis, spinal stenosis, and others.

What are bone spurs on the back of the neck?

Cervical Osteophytes: Bone Spurs in the Neck. Osteophytes are not a cause for concern unless they result in pain or neurological symptoms—such as tingling, numbness, or weakness—that can sometimes radiate from the neck into the shoulder, arm, and/or hand.