Bone Spur

A condition especially common in people above the age of 60 is additional growth of a bone above another bone. Also known as osteophytes, these bony projections are formed when the surface area of joint is further damaged.

It is another condition consecutive of osteoarthritis in joints. The most common areas under stress are spine, toes, heels, feet, hips, shoulders, ribs and anklets. The patient experiences severe pain when these projections rub against the surface of other bones. There are other biological conditions which lead to Osteophytes.

One such condition is Plantar fasciitis. Due to chronic inflammation or irritation of the connective tissue a heel spur (a type of bone spur) may be formed at the place where the fascia (connective tissue) is connective with the calcaneus (heel bone). The other condition is Spondylosis. In this condition the spurs cause degeneration of the cervical Spondylosis (neck bones) or the lumbar Spondylosis (lower back). In some cases bony structures grow on the ligaments of the spine. This condition is called by the name of diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis or DISH.

Diagnosis of Bone spur is done using X-ray, CT or MRI techniques. The treatment includes physical therapy, deep tissue massage and stretching. Other treatments include NSAIDs therapy, rest and icing. In case pain becomes unbearable, an injection of corticosteroid may be given by the doctor. This also prevents any further inflammation of the tissue.

Some of the herbal and home remedies to provide solution to this trouble

Haldi or turmeric carries tremendous bone and joint disorder healing properties. The curcumin pigment present in the turmeric reasons the potency of this spice. One may take 500 mg to 1000mg of curcumin, empty stomach each day. This should be done atleast three times a day. It is believed the curcumin boosts the strength of the bone structure. Flaxseed hot packs can be applied directly to the place where the pain becomes absolutely unbearable.