A heel spur is a bony growth of calcium around the tendons and ligaments where they attach to the heel bone. The spur grows from the bone into the flesh of the foot. A heel spur typically results from repeated stress like jumping, running or sprints. The pain is actually caused by inflamed tendons, not the spur itself. The heel spur aggravates and rubs against area tendons in the heel, causing them to become irritated and inflamed. Aside from the typical rest and ice methods, there are other natural treatments that you can try to reduce the pain and inflammation.
Step 1
Get a massage. Sports massage therapists can be very helpful in relieving pain caused by a heel spur. They can identify what tendons are tight and help loosen those to relieve the pressure from the bone. They can also break up adhesions and scar tissue around the heel that can cause tightness.
Step 2
Try a foot bath. Alternating between hot and cold foot baths can help relieve inflammation and loosen the tendons. Ice massages to the heel can also help. Apply an ice pack directly to the heel for 10 to 15 minutes several times a day.
Step 3
Stretch every day. Stretching is important to loosen up the tendons surrounding the bone spur. Spurs can be caused by tight muscles which pull on the tendons. Practice yoga or stretch the foot, calf and heel two to three times a day for 10 minutes.
Step 4
Try linseed oil. Warm linseed oil can soothe and relieve pain. Saturate a cloth in it and apply to the heel with a heating pad to keep it warm. Keep the pack in place for 60 minutes.
Step 5
Take a herbal bath. Arnica and chamomile added to a warm bath can help relieve pain and inflammation in the heel and foot area. You can also wrap the herbs in a warm cloth and apply as necessary.
Step 6
Add calcium and magnesium to your diet. A proper balance of these nutrients prevents calcium deposits from forming in the heel and throughout the body. You can also take these with a digestive enzyme like betaine HCI to help the body absorb these minerals.
Step 7
Try a natural anti-inflammatory. Natural ingredients found in aloe vera juice, glucosamine, evening primrose oil, shark cartilage and kelp can help relieve pain in the heel and reduce inflammation.
