Ossifications, the process of forming bone tissue, can have different names depending on where the process takes place in the body or what specific type of tissue is being formed. For example, in the spinal column, ossifications can be referred to as spinal calcification or spinal fusion. In the ear, the formation of bone tissue is called otosclerosis. In the hip joint, the process is known as heterotopic ossification. In general, the term mineralization can also be used to describe the formation of bone tissue anywhere in the body. Regardless of the name, ossifications can be a significant medical issue if they occur in abnormal locations or cause restriction of movement.