How to Dissolve Bone Spurs Naturally: Complete Guide to Natural Remedies and Relief
Bone spurs—also known as osteophytes—can cause persistent pain, swelling, and reduced mobility in joints and bones. They often show up silently, gradually worsening over time. While medical treatments like steroid injections or surgery exist, many people seek natural ways to dissolve bone spurs and reduce discomfort without harsh drugs or invasive procedures.
In this guide, you’ll discover how to dissolve bone spurs naturally using a combination of anti-inflammatory diets, supplements, lifestyle changes, and home remedies. We’ll explore everything from the root causes of bone spurs to the safest and most effective ways to manage and potentially reverse them—without surgery.
You’ll also find answers to common questions like:
- What causes bone spurs to form in the first place?
- Is it really possible to dissolve them naturally?
- Which foods, supplements, and home therapies actually help?
Whether you’re dealing with a heel spur, spinal osteophyte, or shoulder calcification, this in-depth guide provides you with practical, science-backed tools to take control of your bone health—naturally.
What Are Bone Spurs?
Bone spurs, medically known as osteophytes, are bony projections that form along the edges of bones—most commonly where bones meet at joints. Contrary to what the name might suggest, bone spurs are not sharp or spiky. They’re actually smooth, dense growths, but they can cause pain and discomfort when they press on nerves, tendons, or other bones.
These spurs are not a disease in themselves. Instead, they’re a response to joint damage—often from osteoarthritis, chronic inflammation, or repetitive stress.
What Causes Bone Spurs?
Bone spurs typically form as a natural response to prolonged joint stress or cartilage breakdown. The body, in an attempt to protect or stabilize the joint, starts laying down new bone tissue.
Here are some common causes:
- Osteoarthritis: The most common cause. As cartilage wears away, bones may rub against each other, triggering spur formation.
- Aging: As we age, joint degeneration is more likely, making older adults more susceptible.
- Poor posture or biomechanical stress: Repetitive movements or poor alignment over time can cause stress on joints and ligaments.
- Obesity: Extra weight increases pressure on joints, especially knees, hips, and spine.
- Injuries or trauma: Previous injuries can accelerate degenerative changes in joints.
- Heredity: Some people are genetically predisposed to degenerative joint conditions.
- Nutrient deficiencies: Lack of magnesium, vitamin D, or calcium balance may also contribute to abnormal bone growth.
According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS), bone spurs are often associated with degenerative joint diseases and tend to appear in joints that experience significant wear and tear over time. [source]
Common Areas Bone Spurs Form
Bone spurs can develop in various parts of the body, but some locations are more common than others. Here’s a table of common sites, their symptoms, and potential impact:
| Location | Common Name | Symptoms |
|---|---|---|
| Heel | Heel spur | Foot pain, especially when walking or standing |
| Spine | Spinal osteophytes | Numbness, tingling, or nerve compression symptoms |
| Shoulder | AC joint spur | Limited arm motion, pain with lifting |
| Hip | Hip spur | Pain with walking, sitting, or rotating the leg |
| Neck (cervical) | Cervical spur | Headaches, neck pain, radiating arm discomfort |
| Knee | Knee joint spur | Joint stiffness, swelling, and pain when bending |
| Fingers/toes | Digital spurs | Joint enlargement, pain, loss of dexterity |
In many cases, bone spurs do not cause symptoms and may go unnoticed for years. However, when they impinge on nerves or limit joint mobility, they can become quite painful and disruptive.
How Bone Spurs Are Diagnosed
If you suspect you may have a bone spur, a healthcare provider can confirm it through:
- Physical examination
- X-rays
- MRI or CT scans (for soft tissue detail)
- Ultrasound (especially for heel spurs)
Once diagnosed, the next step is determining whether to treat the spur medically, surgically, or naturally—which we’ll cover in detail in the next sections.
Symptoms of Bone Spurs
Bone spurs often develop slowly, and in many cases, they don’t cause any symptoms. In fact, many people discover them accidentally during X-rays or imaging for unrelated issues. But when bone spurs grow large enough—or are located near sensitive tissues—they can cause chronic pain, limited movement, and inflammation.
Understanding the symptoms is key to catching them early and beginning a natural healing process before more invasive interventions are needed.
How to Know If You Have a Bone Spur
The symptoms of bone spurs vary depending on their location, size, and whether they press on surrounding tissues such as nerves, tendons, or ligaments. Below are common signs by area:
General Symptoms
- Dull or sharp pain near a joint
- Swelling and tenderness
- Stiffness and reduced range of motion
- Numbness or tingling (if near a nerve)
- Joint weakness or instability
Area-Specific Symptoms
| Location | Potential Symptoms |
|---|---|
| Heel (Heel Spur) | Pain when standing or walking, especially in the morning. [Mayo Clinic] |
| Spine (Spinal Osteophyte) | Radiating pain, muscle weakness, sciatica, or balance issues. [Cleveland Clinic] |
| Neck (Cervical Bone Spur) | Headaches, neck stiffness, radiating arm pain or numbness. |
| Shoulder Spur | Pain during overhead movement, possible rotator cuff impingement. |
| Knee Spur | Pain while bending, squatting, or walking stairs. |
| Hip Spur | Deep groin or buttock pain, difficulty rotating the leg. |
| Fingers or Toes | Hard lumps near joints, discomfort, arthritis-like stiffness. |
In many cases, symptoms worsen with activity or at the end of the day, and improve slightly with rest.
When to See a Doctor
Even though this guide focuses on how to dissolve bone spurs naturally, it’s important to recognize when you should seek medical advice. If you’re experiencing:
- Unrelenting or severe pain
- Progressive weakness or numbness
- Difficulty walking or using a limb
- Symptoms affecting bowel or bladder function (for spinal spurs)
you should consult a healthcare professional immediately. In rare cases, untreated bone spurs can lead to permanent nerve damage or joint degeneration.
According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), bone spurs in the spine can sometimes cause significant nerve compression, leading to serious neurological symptoms if untreated. [source]
How Are Symptoms Confirmed?
Doctors often rely on imaging and a physical exam to confirm bone spurs. Key methods include:
- X-rays – Best for identifying bony growths.
- MRI – Used to check soft tissue involvement and nerve compression.
- CT scan – Provides a 3D view of the spur.
- Ultrasound – Often used for soft tissue spurs, like in the heel.
While the presence of a bone spur doesn’t always require medical treatment, knowing your symptoms helps you decide whether natural management or more intensive therapy is the right course of action.
Can You Dissolve Bone Spurs Naturally?
Many people wonder: is it truly possible to dissolve bone spurs naturally? The short answer is: you may not be able to fully “dissolve” them, but with the right natural strategies, you can often:
- Stop their progression
- Reduce inflammation
- Alleviate pain
- Improve joint mobility
- Avoid surgery or long-term medications
While bone spurs are made of solid calcium deposits that don’t disappear overnight, natural remedies can help shrink or reduce their impact by addressing the underlying causes—especially chronic inflammation, poor joint alignment, and tissue stress.
According to Harvard Medical School, bone spurs develop in response to joint damage from inflammation or trauma—not as standalone growths. Managing inflammation can slow or halt their formation. [source]
Is It Possible to Dissolve Bone Spurs Without Surgery?
Most mild to moderate cases do not require surgery. Many patients manage symptoms and improve function with conservative, non-invasive approaches. These include:
- Anti-inflammatory diets
- Supplements that support joint and bone health
- Exercise and stretching
- Topical natural treatments
- Posture correction and ergonomic support
In one study published in the Journal of Orthopaedic Research, nutritional interventions and physical therapy showed statistically significant improvement in pain and mobility among patients with calcific tendinitis and joint spurs—without the need for surgery. [source]
“We often treat bone spurs with natural interventions like diet and stretching before considering injections or surgery.” — Dr. Steven Shook, Cleveland Clinic Neurologist [source]
How Long Does It Take to See Results?
Consistency is key when using natural approaches. Unlike surgery or steroid injections that offer immediate (but temporary) relief, natural treatments work gradually by targeting the inflammatory and mechanical causes.
Expected Timeline for Improvement:
| Treatment Type | Initial Relief | Noticeable Improvement |
|---|---|---|
| Anti-inflammatory diet | 1–2 weeks | 4–6 weeks |
| Supplements (e.g., turmeric, MSM) | 2–4 weeks | 6–12 weeks |
| Stretching and physical therapy | Immediate to 1 week | 3–8 weeks |
| Weight loss and lifestyle changes | 2–4 weeks | 2–3 months |
Keep in mind: bone spurs develop over years, so reversing their impact takes time. While they may not completely disappear, many people report dramatic reductions in pain and inflammation using holistic methods.
How to Dissolve Bone Spurs Naturally: Top Remedies and Strategies
If you’re wondering how to dissolve bone spurs naturally, this section provides a step-by-step guide to the most effective natural strategies based on clinical studies, naturopathic approaches, and patient-reported outcomes.
The goal of these methods is to reduce inflammation, improve joint function, and help your body reabsorb or minimize the growth of bony tissue over time.
Let’s dive into the most evidence-supported methods.
1. Anti-Inflammatory Diet
Chronic inflammation is the driving force behind many bone spur conditions, especially those associated with osteoarthritis. Reducing systemic inflammation helps slow down new bone growth and alleviates pain.
Focus on These Foods:
- Leafy greens (spinach, kale, collard greens)
- Berries (blueberries, raspberries, strawberries)
- Omega-3-rich foods (wild-caught salmon, flaxseed, walnuts)
- Turmeric and ginger (natural anti-inflammatory spices)
- Olive oil (cold-pressed extra virgin)
- Cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, Brussels sprouts)
A study in the Journal of Nutrition found that participants following an anti-inflammatory Mediterranean diet had lower levels of C-reactive protein, an inflammation marker linked to joint deterioration. [source]
Avoid These Foods:
- Processed sugars and sodas
- White bread, pasta, and refined carbs
- Fried or fast foods
- Excessive red meat
- Dairy (for some, especially if sensitive)
- Alcohol and smoking
2. Natural Supplements for Bone Spur Relief
Several natural supplements have been shown to reduce inflammation and support cartilage and bone regeneration.
🔹 Turmeric (Curcumin)
- Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, is a natural COX-2 inhibitor, similar to NSAIDs but without side effects.
- Dosage: 500–1000 mg/day with black pepper for absorption.
- Clinical trials show it reduces joint pain and swelling in osteoarthritis patients. [source]
🔹 MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane)
- Reduces pain, stiffness, and inflammation.
- Found naturally in some fruits and vegetables.
- Often combined with glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health.
🔹 Glucosamine & Chondroitin
- Help protect cartilage and slow bone spur development.
- Recommended dosage: 1500 mg glucosamine / 1200 mg chondroitin daily.
- Shown to improve function and pain in osteoarthritis. [source]
🔹 Omega-3 Fatty Acids
- Natural anti-inflammatory from fish oil or flaxseed oil.
- Supportive of joint lubrication and nerve function.
3. Herbal Remedies
Traditional herbs have long been used in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine for joint and bone health.
🔸 Boswellia Serrata (Indian Frankincense)
- Inhibits pro-inflammatory enzymes (like 5-LOX).
- Reduces swelling and pain.
- Clinical research supports its use for osteoarthritis and spinal inflammation. [source]
🔸 Devil’s Claw
- Effective for low back pain and arthritis.
- Often found in joint support formulas.
- Dosage: 600–1200 mg/day.
🔸 Comfrey Root (Topical Only)
- Used in creams and salves to reduce joint swelling.
- Should not be ingested due to potential liver toxicity.
4. Stretching and Physical Therapy
Physical therapy and targeted stretching are essential for maintaining mobility and reducing mechanical stress that worsens bone spur symptoms.
Key Stretches:
- Calf and plantar fascia stretches (for heel spurs)
- Neck mobility drills (for cervical bone spurs)
- Hip flexor and glute stretches (for hip spurs)
- Thoracic spine mobility exercises
According to the American Physical Therapy Association, patients with heel spurs experienced significant pain relief using eccentric stretching programs and orthotic support. [source]
Tip:
Avoid high-impact workouts. Focus on low-impact activities like swimming, yoga, cycling, or tai chi.
5. Hot and Cold Therapy
Alternating between hot and cold treatments can relieve pain and promote healing.
- Ice packs reduce swelling and numb sharp pain.
- Heat therapy (like warm compresses or heating pads) increases blood flow and relaxes muscles.
- Use Epsom salt soaks to relax stiff joints—especially effective for heel or foot spurs.
6. Natural Topical Treatments
Natural topical applications can complement internal treatments.
Effective Options:
- Castor oil packs (applied over the joint for 30–45 mins)
- Arnica gel (for localized inflammation)
- Essential oils: Peppermint, eucalyptus, frankincense (diluted with carrier oil)
7. Acupuncture and Alternative Therapies
Acupuncture is widely used for chronic pain and nerve impingement caused by bone spurs.
A review in the BMJ found that acupuncture was more effective than placebo and some medications in relieving osteoarthritis-related joint pain. [source]
Other supportive therapies include:
- Chiropractic care (for spinal alignment)
- Massage therapy
- Ultrasound therapy
Lifestyle Changes to Prevent Bone Spurs from Getting Worse
Bone spurs are not only a result of inflammation and aging but also of mechanical stress and lifestyle habits. If you’re managing symptoms naturally, it’s crucial to make changes that prevent existing spurs from worsening and stop new ones from forming.
Implementing the following long-term lifestyle strategies will support your body’s ability to manage, reduce, and slow down bone spur growth.
1. Posture and Ergonomics
Poor posture—especially during work or while sleeping—places uneven pressure on joints and bones, encouraging spur formation. This is particularly true for spinal and cervical bone spurs.
Posture Fixes:
- Use a lumbar-supportive chair when sitting long hours.
- Adjust your monitor to eye level to reduce neck strain.
- Practice ergonomic keyboard and mouse positioning.
- Wear arch-supportive shoes—especially important for heel spurs.
- Sleep on a firm mattress with proper pillow support for the neck.
According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), poor posture over time contributes to joint misalignment and bone spur development, particularly in the spine. [source]
2. Weight Management
Excess body weight significantly increases the mechanical load on your joints—especially the knees, hips, feet, and spine. This chronic stress accelerates cartilage wear and increases the likelihood of bone spur formation.
🔹 Strategies for Healthy Weight Loss:
- Follow a whole-foods, anti-inflammatory diet (as discussed above).
- Engage in low-impact exercise at least 3–5 times per week.
- Use intermittent fasting or calorie cycling if advised by a doctor.
- Stay hydrated to support joint lubrication and metabolism.
A long-term study from the Annals of Internal Medicine found that a 10% reduction in body weight led to significant improvement in joint function and less bone-related degeneration in overweight adults with knee osteoarthritis. [source]
3. Stay Active—but Avoid High-Impact Movements
Movement keeps synovial fluid circulating in your joints and strengthens the muscles that support the bones, helping reduce friction and pressure. However, high-impact exercises may worsen bone spur symptoms.
Recommended Activities:
- Swimming – zero joint impact, full range of motion
- Tai Chi or Yoga – builds flexibility and alignment
- Walking or elliptical machine – low joint stress
- Resistance band training – builds strength without heavy weights
Avoid:
- Running on hard surfaces
- Jumping exercises
- Heavy weightlifting with poor form
- High-impact sports without proper joint support
The Harvard Health Blog suggests low-impact strength and mobility work to reduce bone-related degeneration while preserving muscle and range of motion. [source]
4. Reduce Environmental Stressors
Chronic stress increases cortisol, a hormone linked to systemic inflammation, slower tissue healing, and joint deterioration.
Stress-Reduction Practices:
- Mindfulness meditation
- Breathing exercises
- Adequate sleep (7–9 hours/night)
- Limiting caffeine and screen time in the evening
Chronic inflammation and poor sleep are closely linked to higher levels of osteoarthritis progression and pain intensity, according to the Sleep Foundation. [source]
Bone Spur Treatment Options: Natural vs. Medical
While many people successfully manage symptoms through natural remedies, there are situations where conventional medical treatment may be necessary. Understanding the advantages and limitations of each approach can help you make informed decisions based on the severity, location, and impact of your bone spur.
When Natural Remedies Aren’t Enough
Natural remedies—like diet, supplements, and stretching—can provide powerful, long-term relief. However, if bone spurs compress nerves, limit movement severely, or cause intolerable pain, more advanced interventions may be required.
Signs You May Need Medical Treatment:
- Persistent or worsening nerve symptoms (tingling, numbness, muscle weakness)
- No improvement after 2–3 months of natural treatment
- Spinal stenosis or radiculopathy due to spinal osteophytes
- Bone spurs affecting bladder or bowel function
- Severe loss of mobility or joint deformity
According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS), surgery is rarely the first option, but it may be necessary if spurs are impinging on nerves or causing structural joint issues. [source]
Conventional Medical Treatments for Bone Spurs
If natural remedies are not enough, these are the most common medical approaches:
1. Corticosteroid Injections
- Fast-acting pain relief by reducing inflammation.
- Common for heel, shoulder, or spine-related spurs.
- Temporary—relief lasts weeks to months.
Mayo Clinic notes that corticosteroids offer short-term relief, but repeated use can damage cartilage and tendons. [source]
2. Physical Therapy (Under Medical Supervision)
- Targets specific muscles and joint mechanics.
- May involve electrotherapy, ultrasound, or manual therapy.
3. Prescription NSAIDs
- Stronger than over-the-counter versions.
- Effective for reducing inflammation and pain short-term.
- Risks include GI problems and long-term kidney/liver impact.
4. Surgery
- Considered only when other methods fail.
- May involve:
- Arthroscopic removal of the bone spur.
- Decompression in spinal surgeries.
- Joint replacement in advanced osteoarthritis.
The Cleveland Clinic explains that minimally invasive surgery may be used to remove spurs causing nerve compression, especially in the spine. [source]
When to Choose a Natural Approach vs. Medical Treatment
Here’s a simple decision matrix to help guide your treatment path:
| Condition | Best Treatment Approach |
|---|---|
| Mild to moderate pain | Natural remedies |
| Pain worsens with activity | Combine natural and physical therapy |
| Pain interferes with sleep or daily life | Consult a doctor; consider injections |
| Nerve impingement (numbness, tingling) | Immediate medical evaluation |
| No results after 3–4 months natural care | Medical or surgical consultation |
| Post-surgical recovery | Support healing with diet/supplements |
Integrative Approach: Best of Both Worlds
In many cases, the best strategy combines conventional treatment for acute relief with natural approaches for long-term healing. For example:
- Use steroids for short-term relief, then transition to an anti-inflammatory diet and exercise.
- Follow surgery or injections with physical therapy and joint-friendly supplements.
- Work with integrative physicians who combine both natural and conventional care plans.
“We now know that lifestyle medicine can be as powerful as drugs or surgery when it comes to musculoskeletal conditions like osteoarthritis and bone spurs.”
— Dr. Wayne Jonas, Integrative Health Specialist and Former Director, NIH Office of Alternative Medicine [source]
FAQs About Natural Bone Spur Treatment
Can bone spurs go away naturally?
Bone spurs don’t usually disappear completely on their own because they are calcified bony growths. However, natural treatments can reduce their size, halt progression, and relieve symptoms by lowering inflammation and supporting joint health.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, most bone spurs don’t require surgery and can be managed with physical therapy, diet, and lifestyle changes. [source]
What is the fastest way to relieve bone spur pain?
The fastest natural ways to relieve bone spur pain include:
- Applying ice packs or alternating hot/cold therapy
- Taking natural anti-inflammatories like turmeric (curcumin) or boswellia
- Using castor oil or arnica topically
- Practicing gentle stretching of the affected area
If severe, corticosteroid injections from a doctor may offer immediate, though temporary, relief.
What foods dissolve bone spurs?
While no food literally “dissolves” bone spurs, certain foods reduce inflammation, which helps stop bone growth and ease pain.
Anti-inflammatory foods to eat:
- Turmeric
- Berries
- Leafy greens
- Wild salmon
- Flaxseeds
- Olive oil
Avoid:
- Sugar
- Fried foods
- White flour
- Excessive dairy and red meat
An anti-inflammatory diet is a core part of managing bone spurs naturally. [source]
Can turmeric shrink bone spurs?
Turmeric won’t dissolve bone spurs directly, but its active compound curcumin can:
- Lower joint inflammation
- Relieve pain
- Support tissue healing
Research shows curcumin works as a natural COX-2 inhibitor, similar to NSAIDs, without their side effects. [source]
Are bone spurs dangerous?
Most bone spurs are not dangerous unless they press on a nerve, tendon, or blood vessel. If they cause numbness, muscle weakness, or radiating pain, they may require medical evaluation.
In severe cases—especially spinal bone spurs—they can lead to nerve compression, which needs prompt treatment.
Can chiropractic care help with bone spurs?
Chiropractic adjustments may relieve pressure on nerves caused by bone spurs, especially in the spine or neck. However, it’s not a cure and should be combined with exercise, diet, and other treatments.
Always consult a licensed chiropractor trained in non-invasive joint care.
How long does it take to heal a bone spur naturally?
Time depends on:
- Size and location of the spur
- Your age and health
- Consistency of natural treatments
With a dedicated approach (diet, supplements, stretching), people often report pain relief within 4–8 weeks, and functional improvement in 2–3 months.
FAQs About Natural Bone Spur Treatment
Can bone spurs go away naturally?
Bone spurs typically do not completely go away on their own because they are bony growths formed by excess calcium deposits. However, natural treatments can help reduce inflammation, minimize pain, and prevent further growth. By managing underlying causes such as joint stress and inflammation, many people experience significant symptom relief without surgery.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, most bone spurs can be managed conservatively with lifestyle changes and physical therapy.
What is the fastest way to relieve bone spur pain?
For quick natural pain relief, apply ice packs to reduce swelling or use heat therapy to relax muscles. Taking anti-inflammatory supplements like turmeric (curcumin) and using topical treatments such as arnica gel or castor oil can also help. Gentle stretching can improve mobility and reduce stiffness. For severe pain, corticosteroid injections prescribed by a doctor may provide faster relief but are temporary.
What foods help dissolve bone spurs?
While no food directly dissolves bone spurs, an anti-inflammatory diet supports joint health and may slow spur progression. Focus on:
- Leafy greens (spinach, kale)
- Berries (blueberries, strawberries)
- Omega-3 rich foods (salmon, flaxseeds)
- Turmeric and ginger
- Olive oil
Avoid processed sugars, fried foods, and excessive red meat which can increase inflammation.
A study in Nutrients highlights how diet influences inflammation and bone health.
Can turmeric shrink bone spurs?
Turmeric won’t directly shrink bone spurs, but its active ingredient curcumin is a potent natural anti-inflammatory. It helps reduce joint swelling and pain, supporting healing and preventing further damage.
Research published in PMC shows curcumin’s effectiveness as a natural COX-2 inhibitor, reducing inflammation similar to NSAIDs but without side effects.
Are bone spurs dangerous?
Most bone spurs are harmless and only cause symptoms if they press on nerves, tendons, or ligaments. Danger arises if they cause nerve compression leading to numbness, weakness, or radiating pain. Spinal bone spurs may cause serious issues if untreated.
Can chiropractic care help with bone spurs?
Chiropractic care may relieve symptoms by improving joint alignment and reducing nerve pressure caused by bone spurs, particularly in the spine or neck. It should be used alongside other natural treatments like stretching and diet for best results. Always consult a licensed chiropractor with experience in joint and nerve conditions.
How long does it take to heal a bone spur naturally?
Healing time varies depending on the spur’s size, location, and your overall health. Consistent use of natural remedies such as anti-inflammatory diet, supplements, and physical therapy can yield pain relief in 4–8 weeks, with gradual functional improvement over 2–3 months or longer.
Conclusion: Take a Holistic, Long-Term Approach to Bone Spur Relief
Learning how to dissolve bone spurs naturally isn’t about quick fixes—it requires a holistic and patient approach. Through anti-inflammatory diets, targeted supplements, physical therapy, and lifestyle adjustments, you can significantly reduce pain, improve mobility, and slow spur progression.
While bone spurs themselves may not completely disappear without surgery, many individuals regain full function and comfort by focusing on:
- Reducing inflammation systemically
- Maintaining healthy joint mechanics
- Supporting tissue healing with natural remedies
Always consult healthcare professionals to rule out serious conditions or nerve involvement. Combining natural methods with medical advice creates the best path toward lasting relief.
By committing to these natural strategies, you empower your body to heal and prevent future bone spur complications—improving quality of life without heavy reliance on medications or invasive procedures.
