Identification

• Bone spurs are visible on an X-ray. More often they are diagnosed based on symptoms patients are suffering. Most bone spurs have no symptoms and do not cause pain or impair movement. Only when they begin to wear on soft tissue, or build up calluses such as in the case of corns on the feet, are the spurs discovered.
  
  

Significance

• Bone spurs will develop on the spines of 42 percent of adults. In some cases this results in neck or back pain, and weakness and radiating arm or leg pain. Causes of bone spurs in the spine can include injury, heredity or poor posture. The vertebrae can wear against the discs separating them, causing the damaged area where bone spurs can develop.
  
  

Types

• The shoulder is another common area for bone spur development. The muscles of the rotator cuff completely enclose the head of the humorous. Because the shoulder moves freely in so many directions there is more opportunity for the joint to become worn. This is most especially seen in the case of baseball pitchers and painters, both of whom frequently make repetitive movements with their arms above their heads.
  
  

Considerations

• Heel spurs, corns and plantar fasciitis are all disorders of the feet that result from the presence of bone spurs. Tight shoes and high heels are often the causes for the initial bone damage. Being overweight is another cause of stress to the feet. Athletes such as dancers and runners are also susceptible to developing bone spurs.
  
  

Prevention/Solution

• Initial treatment for pain related to bone spurs is rest, ice, stretching or pain medication. Taking pressure off the affected joint may help stop or reverse the development or painful effects of bone spurs. Weight loss is recommended, especially when the spurs are on the feet or are the result of osteoarthritis. Changing footwear for better-fitting, more comfortable shoes will also reduce the pain associated with spurs occurring in the foot. If pain related to a bone spur becomes too bad, corticosteroid injections or surgery may be required.
  
  

Theories/Speculation

• Alternative treatments help in reducing the inflammation or pain caused by bone spurs. Suggested remedies include soaking cheese cloth in warm linseed oil and then placing it over the area, covered with a heating pad for two hours. Pain can be reduced using flaxseed hot packs applied to the area. A home remedy for treating the bone spur itself is to take 500 to 1000 mg of curcumin four times a day on an empty stomach.