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Osteochondroma (Bone Spur) Explained: Symptoms, Diagnosis & When Surgery Is Needed
An osteochondroma is a benign bone-and-cartilage growth that often appears near joints (commonly around the knee, shoulder, or hip). Most cases are harmless, but pain, limited movement, or nerve/vessel pressure may indicate the need for surgical removal.
What is an osteochondroma?
An osteochondroma is a benign outgrowth made of bone covered by a cartilage “cap.” It most often develops during childhood and adolescence. In many patients, growth stops after skeletal maturity. Osteochondromas commonly form near the ends of long bones—especially around the knee, but they can also appear near the shoulder or hip.
Common symptoms
Many osteochondromas cause no symptoms and are found incidentally on an X-ray. When symptoms occur, they may include:
- A hard, bony lump you can feel under the skin
- Pain or tenderness (often with movement or friction)
- Reduced range of motion if the growth is near a joint
- Numbness/tingling or weakness if a nerve is compressed
- Circulation-related symptoms (rare) if a blood vessel is compressed
Important: New or rapidly worsening pain, or noticeable growth of the lump in adulthood, should be evaluated promptly.
How is it diagnosed?
Diagnosis usually starts with a physical examination and a plain X-ray, which often shows a typical bony outgrowth continuous with the main bone. In some cases, MRI or CT is recommended to assess the cartilage cap, nearby soft tissues, and the relationship to nerves or vessels.
Do you always need surgery?
Not always. If an osteochondroma is small and causes no symptoms, observation with periodic follow-up may be appropriate. However, surgery becomes a stronger option when symptoms affect daily life or when there are red flags.
When is surgical removal recommended?
- Persistent pain or recurrent irritation
- Limited joint movement or mechanical symptoms
- Nerve compression (numbness, tingling, weakness)
- Blood vessel compression (rare circulation symptoms)
- Risk of deformity in children (near growth plates)
- Rapid growth or suspicious imaging findings
- Significant cosmetic concern
Osteochondroma surgery: what to expect
The goal of surgery is complete removal of the lesion, including the cartilage cap. This helps reduce the risk of recurrence and relieves pressure on nearby tissues. Surgical planning depends on the location, size, and proximity to nerves, vessels, or the joint.
In selected cases, minimally invasive or arthroscopic (keyhole) techniques may be used—often allowing smaller incisions, less postoperative discomfort, and a quicker return to daily activities.
Recovery and results
- Some patients can go home the same day, depending on the case and location.
- Stitches are commonly removed around 10–14 days.
- Return to work and sport depends on the size and location of the osteochondroma.
- Post-op load-bearing and exercises are tailored to your situation.
If you suspect an osteochondroma—or you’ve already been diagnosed—timely assessment can prevent long-term discomfort and functional limitation. At DMN Orthospine Clinic, we offer clear guidance and personalised surgical planning when surgery is the best option.
