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question

Can taking calcium for osteopenia cause bone spurs?

Anthony L. Komaroff, MD
Anthony L. Komaroff, MD
Internal Medicine
answer
Osteopenia and bone spurs have no direct connection. So, taking calcium has no effect on bone spurs.

Osteopenia is a condition in which bone density is slightly lower than is considered ideal, but it is not as low as with osteoporosis. So, your risk of fracture is slightly increased, but not as dramatically as if you had osteoporosis.

People with osteopenia should be evaluated for conditions that might contribute to low bone density, such as an overactive thyroid gland. Those with osteopenia should receive treatment to slow bone loss and/or increase bone density. Treatment includes calcium, vitamin D and, in some cases, medications (such as alendronate/Fosamax or risedronate/Actonel) to increase the formation of bone.

The most common cause of bone spurs in the feet is plantar fasciitis. This is inflammation of the tough connective tissue that lines the arch of the foot. The plantar fascia applies stress where it attaches to the heel. The bone in the heel reacts by forming a spur, which is a small outgrowth of extra bone.

Although bone spurs are highly associated with longstanding plantar fasciitis, many people have bone spurs without any symptoms at all. They show up on x-rays that are usually taken for some other reason.
Harvard Medical School Osteoporosis: A guide to prevention and treatment

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Harvard Medical School Osteoporosis: A guide to prevention and treatment

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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.