Help for Bone Spurs and Arthritis in the Neck

A bone spur is an affliction that occurs when a small bone forms on a regular bone. Bone spurs and arthritis are most common to adults in their older years, especially those with a diet lacking in calcium. Although bone spurs themselves don't hurt, they often form in places that rub against other bones and tendons, causing intense pain at times, as does arthritis.

Calcium and Vitamin D

• Calcium is very important to prevent bone spurs and keep your bones healthy. If your diet is lacking in calcium or your body isn't absorbing calcium as it should, your body will use the calcium from your bones for cell functions. This makes your bones susceptible to spurs and other ailments. Take a daily calcium supplement with vitamin D, as it helps the body absorb the calcium so your bones will stay strong.

Ice

• Reducing the swelling and inflammation caused by bone spurs and arthritis helps alleviate some of the pain the ailments cause. One way to help stop inflammation is to ice the painful areas with an ice pack at least four times a day. If this doesn't seem to help the pain or makes it worsen, try using a heating pad instead.

Cheesecloth

• Another home remedy that may help stop the pain of bone spurs and arthritis is placing oil-soaked, warm cheesecloth over the area. Warm some linseed oil to a comfortable temperature, then soak the cheesecloth in it before applying it to the neck. Place a piece of plastic wrap over the cheesecloth, and cover it with a heating pad for two hours.

Curcumin

• Curcumin, an ingredient in turmeric, is a natural anti-inflammatory and has other benefits for those suffering from arthritis and bone spurs. To get the maximum benefits out of curcumin, take at least 500 milligrams and no more than 1000 milligrams per day. Take it on an empty stomach, and continue the treatment for six weeks.