Bone spurs, or osteophytes, occur when an extra bone forms on a normal bone due to pressure in the area. They are most common in people over 60, and usually appear in the feet or spine. They can also be a complication of arthritis. Bone spurs can be so painful that they can limit mobility. If you have developed a bone spur, there are several home remedies available that may help bring relief.
Lessen Pain
Since bone spurs are caused by pressure, resting the affected area can provide some relief. If you generally get your exercise in the form of running or another strenuous activity, consider temporarily switching to an exercise regimen that puts less pressure on the spur, such as swimming.
Using heat and cold alternatively can also help reduce the pain associated with a bone spur. Alternating between hot and cold will help increase blood flow to the area, which can reduce the pain substantially.
Soak It
Once you have taken the pressure off of the bone spur to avoid further growth, soaking the affected area daily with straight apple cider vinegar can reduce the size of the spur. The key to reducing a bone spur quickly is to soak it constantly. In order to continuing soaking the bone spur while you are out, cut a piece of fabric or a brown paper bag to fit the heel or other affected area. Soak the fabric or bag in vinegar and place at the spot of the bone spur. The fabric or bag can then be covered by bandages or cheesecloth and covered with plastic to keep the vinegar from leaking through, and can be worn under your clothes. For best results, the vinegar will need to be reapplied several times throughout the day.
Food Remedy
Curcumin, the pigment that turns turmeric yellow, is thought to be the effective ingredient in bone spur reduction. Take 500 to 1000 mg of turmeric three to four times a day for up to six weeks. If you are resting and soaking the area and taking turmeric, the bone spur should be gone within six weeks.
Tags: bone spur, affected area, reduce pain