Bone Spurs

A bone spur is a bony calcium growth that forms on the edges of bones where it doesn't normally belong. The medical term for bone spurs are osteophytes.

These growths are usually smooth and appear as small, hard bumps. Bone spurs can develop in various body parts but are most common in joints and along the edges of bones. Bone spurs are often painless and are not usually noticed unless they impinge on nerves, ligaments, or tendons, where they can cause pain, inflammation, or restricted movement.

Bone spurs often develop due to stress or pressure on the bones or joints. Causes include:

  • Aging: Wear and tear on the joints can lead to the formation of bone spurs.
  • Osteoarthritis: This degenerative joint disease can cause the growth of bone spurs in affected joints.
  • Joint Injuries: Trauma to a joint can trigger the formation of bone spurs.
  • Poor Posture: Chronic poor posture can increase the risk of bone spurs in the spine and neck.
  • Tendinitis or Bursitis: Inflammation of tendons (tendinitis) or bursa sacs (bursitis) can cause bone spurs.

Bone spurs can form in various parts of the body, including:

  • Joints, such as the knees, hips, shoulders, and fingers.
  • Spine or along the vertebrae.
  • Heels
  • Neck

Medical treatment for bone spurs may be required, and you should consult a physician to assess your situation. Medical treatments include prescription orthotics, anti-inflammatories, and injections of corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and pain. Physical therapy may be prescribed to reduce pain. Bone spurs can also be surgically removed where other treatments do not help.

Not all bone spurs require medical treatment, especially if they are not causing symptoms or affecting joint function. If you suspect you have a bone spur or are experiencing symptoms related to one, consult a healthcare provider for a proper evaluation and guidance on the most appropriate treatment options.

Home Remedies and Natural Cures for Bone Spurs

Home remedies can help alleviate some symptoms associated with bone spurs, such as pain and inflammation, but they may not eliminate the spurs themselves. Remember that bone spurs often require medical evaluation and treatment, especially if they cause significant discomfort or affect your daily life.

Here are some home remedies that may provide relief from bone spur symptoms:

Rest

Reducing the stress on the area can relieve discomfort. Avoid activities that increase pressure and cause pain, and allow your body time to rest and heal.

Footwear Modifications

If you have heel spurs or spurs in the feet, purchase properly fitting shoes with arch support. Orthotic inserts may also reduce pain and discomfort.

Ice

Applying ice packs to the affected area for 15-20 minutes can help reduce inflammation and numb the area, providing temporary pain relief. Be sure to wrap the ice pack in a cloth to avoid direct skin contact.

Weight Control

Even being a few pounds overweight aggravates bone spurs. Maintaining a healthy weight can reduce the stress on weight-bearing joints and potentially decrease pain associated with bone spurs. A healthy diet rich in vegetables, low in processed food, and rich in anti-inflammatory foods like fruits, vegetables, and fatty fish (e.g., salmon) may also help reduce inflammation and support overall joint health.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids reduce inflammation. The usual dosage is 1000 mg twice daily to help reduce inflammation and decrease the pain of bone spurs. Follow product manufacturer directions.

OTC Capsasin or Menthol Pain Relieving Lotions

Over-the-counter topical creams or gels containing ingredients like capsaicin or menthol can temporarily relieve the area and reduce pain. Menthol has a cooling sensation, and capsaicin is heating. (Capsaicin is the chemical that makes hot peppers hot.) These remedies can provide relief as the cooling/heating chemicals disrupt the nerve pain signals. Wear gloves to avoid getting the lotion in the eyes or mucus membranes. Follow the product's instructions for proper use.

Glucosamine Chondroitin

Glucosamine Chondroitin and Chondroitin Sulfate help reduce pain and inflammation. Take this supplement with food. Follow all product manufacturer instructions.

Turmeric

Turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties called curcumin. You can take a turmeric supplement or incorporate turmeric spice into your diet.

Ginger

Ginger is another natural anti-inflammatory agent. Ginger supplements are available if you don't like the taste. If you enjoy its spicy taste, try making some ginger tea by boiling fresh ginger slices in water and drinking it throughout the day.

Cautions

It's important to remember that home remedies may not cure bone spurs and should be used as complementary measures to manage symptoms. If your symptoms persist or worsen despite trying home remedies, or you experience severe pain, limited mobility, or other concerning symptoms, consult a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. In some cases, medical interventions like medication, physical therapy, or surgical removal of the bone spur may be necessary to address the underlying issue.