Bone Spur on Top of Foot: Complete Guide to Symptoms, Causes, and Relief

Waking up to a hard bump on the top of your foot can be alarming. Walking becomes uncomfortable, and shoes feel tight. This could be a Bone Spur on Top of Foot, also known as a tarsal boss. Understanding the condition and how to manage it can save you from long-term discomfort.
What Is a Bone Spur on Top of the Foot?
A bone spur (osteophyte) is an extra bony growth that develops along bones, often near joints or tendon attachments.
On top of the foot, this growth is called a tarsal boss or dorsal exostosis. While sometimes painless, it can cause discomfort when it rubs against shoes, tendons, or nerves.
Common symptoms include:
- A hard bump under the skin
- Redness or swelling if irritated
- Pain when wearing tight shoes
- Calluses or blisters if friction occurs
How to Treat a Bone Spur on Top of Foot
Treatment usually starts conservatively and progresses to surgical options only if necessary:
1. Rest & Pressure Relief
Avoid activities or footwear that increase pain.
2. Ice & Heat Therapy
- Ice: Reduce inflammation
- Gentle heat: Relieve stiffness
3. Pain Relief Medications
Over-the-counter NSAIDs like ibuprofen can help ease discomfort.
4. Supportive Footwear & Padding
- Soft, roomy shoes
- Gel pads or foam cushions to relieve pressure
5. Orthotics & Insoles
Custom or pre-made insoles redistribute pressure away from the spur.
6. Physical Therapy
Stretching, strengthening, and gait retraining can reduce tension on affected joints.
7. Corticosteroid Injections
Used to reduce persistent inflammation in severe cases.
8. Surgery
Reserved for severe, unresponsive cases and typically involves spur excision.

What Happens if Bone Spurs Go Untreated?
Ignoring a bone spur can lead to:
- Increased pain and tenderness
- Swelling and inflammation
- Difficulty walking or bending the foot
- Nerve compression (tingling, numbness, or burning)
- Secondary joint issues from altered gait
Early treatment is key to preventing worsening symptoms.
Can Bone Spurs Be Cancerous?
Most bone spurs are benign and caused by joint stress or cartilage wear.
See a specialist if:
- The bump grows rapidly
- Pain persists without improvement
- There are unusual changes in skin, color, or sensation
Diagnostic imaging (X-rays, MRI, CT) confirms that the growth is a benign spur rather than a tumor.
Preventing Future Bone Spurs
Even after treatment, follow these preventive steps:
- Wear supportive, well-fitted shoes with cushioning
- Use custom insoles or orthotics if you have arch or gait issues
- Avoid prolonged standing or high-impact activity without proper footwear
- Maintain a healthy body weight
- Strengthen foot and ankle muscles through exercises
Why Proper Footwear & Orthotics Matter
The right shoes can relieve pressure and prevent worsening of a bone spur:
- Soft, stretchable uppers
- Extra depth over the midfoot
- Gel or foam cushioning
- Proper arch support
In the UAE, where temperatures and walking surfaces can vary, choosing shoes that combine comfort, ventilation, and cushioning is essential. Proper footwear often allows daily activities without pain and reduces irritation over time.

Key Takeaway:
A bone spur on top of the foot is usually benign, but it can be painful. Early management with supportive footwear, orthotics, and conservative care can relieve discomfort and prevent complications. In severe cases, a specialist may recommend surgical removal.