Exostoses

Allopathic treatment

A doctor will usually prescribe anti-inflammatory painkillers, such as aspirin or ibuprofen, to help relieve pain. Resting and keeping pressure off of the affected area can also help diminish the pain. A back or neck brace can provide additional support and relieve pressure. A foam cushion placed in the shoe, with a hole cut out for the spur, can help relieve the pain of a spur on the foot. Severe cases may call for surgery, but this relief may be temporary, since bone spurs can grow back in the same place.

Expected results

Once bone spurs form, patients can use different therapies to manage the pain associated with this ailment and to help improve their range of movement. While surgery may be used to remove a bone spur in severe cases, there is a chance that another could grow to take its place.

Prevention

Maintaining a healthy body weight and reducing stress on one's joints are steps individuals can take to reduce the chance of bone spurs. Exercises which work the muscles of the whole body, such as walking, biking, swimming, and tennis, are recommended for weight loss and muscle strength.

BOOKS

Somerville, Robert. The Medical Advisor: The Complete Guide to Alternative & Conventional Treatments. Alexandria, VA: Time Life Inc., 1996.

PERIODICALS

"Better than aspirin?" Industry Week (July 7, 1997): 32.

OTHER

DrKoop.com. Osteoarthritis. [cited July 17, 2000].<http://www.drkoop.com.>

National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. Osteoarthritis. [May 1, 1999].

Footcare Direct. Hammertoes/Bone Spurs. [cited July 17, 2000]. <http://www.footcaredirect.com.>

Heather Bienvenue

Content
licensed
from:

Author Info: Heather Bienvenue, The Gale Group Inc., Gale, Detroit, Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine, 2005

This feature is for informational purposes only and should not be used to replace the care and information received from your healthcare provider. Please consult a healthcare professional with any health concerns you may have.