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Heterotopic ossification [HO] is the growth of a knot-like piece of bone in the soft tissues near joints. It typically occurs below the level of your spinal cord injury. Bone is formed most commonly around the hips and knees, in the space between muscles. The cause of HO is not known. Up to half of people with SCI will develop at least some HO. It can be seen on an x-ray 4¨C10 weeks after the injury. The growth stops on its own after 8¨C30 months, leaving behind a chunk of bone. It¡¯s just like any other bone in your body, except that it serves no particular function, and it can cause problems in joint movement.

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This content is for informational purposes only and may not be comprehensive. Information contained does not imply an endorsement from Shirley Ryan ³Ô¹ÏÌìÌÃ91, and does not replace the advice of a qualified healthcare professional.  See here for further details. ? Shirley Ryan ³Ô¹ÏÌìÌÃ91 (formerly Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago). Henry B. Betts LIFE Center ¨C (312) 238-5433 ¨C /lifecenter