Spinal Arthritis: Stopping the Bone Spur "Rust"

Think of a spinal joint like a door hinge. When the hinge is misaligned, it rubs — and over years of rubbing, the body lays down extra bone, a bit like "rust" forming where there's friction. Those bony growths are called bone spurs (osteophytes), and they're a hallmark of spinal osteoarthritis. The good news is that you're not powerless: the right care may help calm the inflammation driving the process and keep your joints moving. Here's how we think about it.

Arthritis is "spinal rust"

In spinal osteoarthritis, the smooth cartilage that cushions your joints wears down, and the body responds by forming bone spurs along the edges of the bone (Mayo Clinic (https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/osteoarthritis/symptoms-causes/syc-20351925)). Joint damage from osteoarthritis is the most common cause of these growths (Mayo Clinic: bone spurs (https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/bone-spurs/symptoms-causes/syc-20370212)). Many bone spurs cause no symptoms at all — but when they narrow the space around nerves, they can contribute to stiffness, aching, and sometimes numbness or weakness.

Why "just dull the pain" isn't a plan

The common approach is anti-inflammatory medication to quiet symptoms. That can help you feel better in the moment, but it doesn't address the friction and inflammation underneath. Our goal at Elite Performance Health Center is different: we want to reduce what's aggravating the joint in the first place, so the "rust" has less reason to keep forming.

How laser therapy fits in

We use the MLS laser (a form of photobiomodulation) as part of care for arthritic joints. Research on low-level laser therapy suggests it may help reduce pain and improve function in osteoarthritis for some people (systematic review, BMJ Open via NCBI (https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6830679/)). The idea is to calm the local inflammation, support healthy blood flow, and help the surrounding tissues feel less "crusty" and stiff. It isn't a cure for arthritis, and results vary — but as one part of a plan, many patients find it helps them move more comfortably.

Movement is medicine for arthritic joints

Alongside laser therapy, gentle adjustments and targeted movement help keep arthritic joints mobile. Motion helps circulate the joint's natural lubricating fluid, and staying active is one of the most consistent recommendations for managing osteoarthritis over the long run (Mayo Clinic (https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/osteoarthritis/symptoms-causes/syc-20351925)). A stiff, unused joint tends to feel worse; a well-supported, moving joint tends to feel better.

The takeaway

You can't turn back the clock on arthritis, but you may be able to slow its momentum and protect how you move. A personalized evaluation shows which of your spinal joints are irritated and what combination of care — laser, adjustments, and movement — makes the most sense for you.

Frequently asked questions

What causes bone spurs on the spine?

They most often form in response to osteoarthritis — as cartilage wears down, the body lays down extra bone along the joint edges. Many bone spurs cause no symptoms, but some can narrow the space around nerves.

Can you get rid of bone spurs without surgery?

Existing bone spurs generally don't dissolve on their own, but conservative care aims to calm the inflammation and irritation around the joint so symptoms improve and the process is less likely to progress. Care is individualized, and results vary.

Does laser therapy help arthritis?

Research on low-level laser therapy suggests it may reduce pain and improve function in osteoarthritis for some people. It's used as one part of a broader plan, not a standalone cure.

Should I keep moving if I have spinal arthritis?

Usually yes. Gentle, appropriate movement helps keep joints mobile and is a core recommendation for managing osteoarthritis. Your provider can guide what's safe for your specific spine.

Slow the "rust" and keep your spine moving

If arthritis is stiffening your spine, it's worth finding out what's driving it. Dr. Matthew Smith and the team at Elite Performance Health Center use MLS laser therapy (https://www.elite-spinal-care.com/laser-therapy) and gentle adjustments to help arthritic joints move more comfortably. Call (801) 302-0280 or book a consultation (https://www.elite-spinal-care.com/contact).

Elite Performance Health Center — 10434 S. 4000 W., South Jordan, UT 84009 — (801) 302-0280

This article is for general educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Individual results vary and outcomes are not guaranteed. Please consult a qualified healthcare provider about your specific condition.