Bone spurs -- bony bumps or projections that manifest along the edges of your bones -- may contact nerves and other bones that lie in close proximity, causing pain and other symptoms. The Spine Health website states that bone spurs may cause back or neck pain, due to facet joint inflammation and irritation of your back muscles. Dietary supplements may provide important nutrients to help treat your bone spurs, although you should clear the use of supplements with a physician first.
Bone Spur Info
Osteoarthritis, also known as degenerative joint disease, is one of the most common causes of bone spurs. According to MayoClinic.com, osteoarthritis causes a breakdown in your joint cartilage. As your body attempts to repair this damage, it creates new bone along the margins of your existing bones. Some of the most common signs and symptoms associated with bone spurs include joint pain and decreased joint range of motion. Bone spurs may be most common in your shoulders and knees and on your spine.
Nutritional Supplements
Both herbal and non-herbal supplements may be helpful in delivering important nutrients to help combat your bone spurs. Certified nutritional consultant Phyllis A. Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," states that betaine hydrochloride, calcium and magnesium, proteolytic enzymes, vitamin C, bioflavonoids, MSM, vitamin B complex, arnica, chamomile, bromelain and turmeric may all be helpful in treating this health problem and its accompanying symptoms. More research evidence may be necessary to support the use of these supplements for bone spurs.
Highlighted Supplement
Pyridoxine, also known as vitamin B-6, may be an important nutritional supplement in treating or preventing bone spurs. Pyridoxine, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, may be deficient in people suffering from chronic inflammatory conditions. Inflammation plays an important role in bone spur formation. Pyridoxine is required for the synthesis of hydrochloric acid, which helps prevent bone spurs by encouraging proper calcium absorption. A dosage of 50 mg per day may be helpful for this health purpose, although you should always review proper dosage with your doctor first.
Disclaimer
Nutritional supplements may best be used in preventing bone spurs. Nutritional supplements, though intended to help prevent the formation of bone spurs, may cause undesired health side effects in some individuals, especially if they are not used as your physician instructed. A health-care professional with advanced training in nutrition can provide you with the most relevant information about the effectiveness and safety of nutritional supplements as well as the best supplements for you and your health condition.
References
- Spine Health: Clinical Symptoms of Bone Spurs
- MayoClinic.com: Bone Spurs
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2010
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Vitamin B-6
