A bone spur or osteophytes is an additional bone that grows on top of the normal bone. This usually occurs on joints in the body – joints of the feet, the spine, hips, knees, hands and shoulders. The bone spur is not a painful growth, however, it may cause pain when there is friction with other bones or other nerves surrounding it. A bone spur may cause mild pains in the back and neck of patients. While standing and walking, patients generally tend to experience pain in their necks and back. People who suffer from osteoarthritis are generally more prone to developing bone spurs. Osteoarthritis causes the cartilage in joints to break down, making them brittle and frail. Bone spurs develop as a reaction to this, developing new bones where others have broken down. In the elderly, bone spurs sometimes develop as a reaction to the erosion of joints with age. Trauma to the bone, nutrition deficiencies, diseases like spondylosis and spinal stenosis may also lead to the formation of bone spurs. Bone spurs may lead to inflammation of the skin and cause immense discomfort.
When caring for bone spurs at home, it is effective to apply a cold compress at least four times a day to relieve pain and discomfort. A hot foot bath may help provide immediate relief from pain caused by bone spurs. Apply a cheesecloth dipped in linseed oil that is slightly warm on the affected area to provide immediate relief. A periodic foot massage will help reduce pain and inflammation. A massage increases blood circulation to the affected area and helps cure inflammation. Apply a pack made of warm flaxseeds on your foot to help relieve pain and inflammation.
It is important to wear well-fitting footwear if you have a bone spur. High heeled shoes, shoes that do not have a proper base or sole, shoes that are ill-fitting may lead to the formation of bone spurs. Since they cause pain because of friction while walking, it is important to wear soft, padded shoes that prevent the bone spur from experiencing any friction. Avoid flat shoes and canvas shoes. Shoes that have good help support, those that are well padded and have shock absorbent soles are ideal for people suffering from bone spurs in the feet. Change your footwear frequently to prevent your feet from any further injury. Avoid walking barefoot as this will only worsen your condition.