Table of Contents
Cure a Heel Spur
"A heel spur is a radiological (X-ray) finding, often seen in those suffering from plantar fasciitis.
It consists of a thin spike of calcification, which lies within the plantar fascia at the point of its attachment to the calcaneus, or heel bone. While this condition is commonly present in plantar fasciitis, it is a result of the inflammation, and is not the cause of the pain caused thereby. The X-ray findings are not diagnostic, and are commonly reported in people not suffering from fasciitis." (Wikipedia)
"Plantar fasciitis, formerly called policeman's heel in the United Kingdom, is a painful inflammatory condition caused by excessive wear to the plantar fascia of the foot or biomechanical faults that cause abnormal pronation of the foot. The pain usually is felt on the underside of the heel, and is often most intense with the first steps of the day. It is commonly associated with long periods of weight bearing, sudden changes in weight bearing or activity, Obesity, weight gain, jobs that require a lot of walking on hard surfaces, shoes with little or no arch support, and inactivity are also associated with the condition." (Wikipedia)
DISCLAIMER
Our readers offer information and opinions on Earth Clinic, not as a substitute for professional medical prevention, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult with your physician, pharmacist, or health care provider before taking any home remedies or supplements or following any treatment suggested by anyone on this site. Only your health care provider, personal physician, or pharmacist can provide you with advice on what is safe and effective for your unique needs or diagnose your particular medical history.
POPULAR REMEDIES:
| APPLE CIDER VINEGAR WRAP | 6 YEAS |
TED'S REMEDIES
Ratings:
|
07/13/2007: Ted from Bangkok, Thailand writes: "My own experience with bone spur were taking a supplements of magnesium bicarbonate (magnesium carbonate in carbonated water) taken internally or magnesium supplements at 250 mg a day for 5 days out a week for a month, and some boron supplements also helpful.
I think foot soaking in borax solution may work better. Perhaps the reason why the cold water remedy works (my wild guess) is that cold tap water is high in chlorinated water and it makes for absorption of chlorine through the skin better, causing the bone spurs to reduce since chlorine kills off the mycobacterium in the bone spurs through transdermal absorption of chlorinated water compound. Most U.S. waters are chlorinated. A hot water would drive out most of the chlorine and hence less effective.
On the other hand adding a small amount of chlorox as a foot soak might do the same if the chlorinated water are insufficient.
I would much prefer to do a foot soak using a weak solution of Bo Peep (ammonia cleaning solution) plus some borax as a foot soak since both the ammonia and borax are some of the most strongest antifungal or anti-mycobacterium necessary to cause the mycobacterium to be killed or reduce."
Replies04/29/2011: Juanita from Gurnee, Il, 60031 replies: "Can you tell me how much to BoPeep and borax do I add to the water? Also, how long do I soak the foot for?"
01/10/2012: Martina from Burnaby, Bc, Canada replies: "It never occurred to me that my plantar fasciitis might have been caused by a heel spur in combo with some microbial infection but it makes perfect sense. Especially when you think of how much mildew might be hiding in the shower.I had a year of difficulty walking - so much so that I thought I was going to become lame. I couldn't wear any shoe without an arch support. I had tried stretching, ice, exercises, massage, ibuprofen, castor oil and was still getting progressively worse.
After a year and a half of suffering I tried MSM every two hours for a few days like directed on this site. The MSM didn't seem to make a difference but then I tried soaking in borax/clorox just a couple of times. Within the week, I could put my weight on my heel in the morning - a huge improvement. I can now wear high heels for an entire day again and it's been years since I could wear them.
Thank-you, thank-you, thank-you!"
[YEA] 01/16/2012: Felicia from Seaside, California replies: "A few days ago a friend of mine recommended that I used apple cider vinegar and turmeric for my possible heel spurs. I was so desperate because the pain was getting worse and worse and I was taking more and more Advil with no relief. She read me some of the comments on your site and said I would try it. I found the turmeric for inflammation but couldn't find the organic ACV until the next day (that was saturday 1/14)Today it is the 16th and I have only been using it for 2 days. This morning I got out of bed expecting the same pain and inablility to walk as before and much to my surprise I got out of bed and walked with barely a twinge. I could not believe it. I am so amazed that this works but I am going to be using it for other ailments as well since the results with jsut a couple of days treatment have been astounding. I am still using it to get full relief which I expect now by the end of this week. Thank you so much for such a wonderful site. I will be coming back here seeking advice as much as I can. Thank you again."
 Reply to this Thread |  Email |  Print |  Back to Top |
TED'S REMEDY FEEDBACK
Ratings:
|
05/20/2010: Ted from Bankok, Thailand writes: "PLANTAR FASCIITIS (heel spurs).
This is a painful condition where bone growth (spurs) occur in the heel and can be very painful. But it can also occur in the sole area also. As for me these growths are more related to a long term problem in the past caused by toe nail fungus as it enters deep into the bone, where its growth inside the bone causes the growth of spurs. Bacterium and various pathogens are found in those areas and such surgical procedures to the area will create a new spur growth in the same area as they are living organisms and grow anaerobically.
The best remedy for heel spurs is 2000 mg of MSM taken hourly for 6 hours for about two weeks. Then you should experience major reduction in pain, roughly 50 to 80%. The MSM works similarly to H2O2 therapy, only that MSM goes much deeper in oxygenation killing off these anaerobic pathogens that grows inside the bone. Hence, because of its ability to go deep into the cells giving more oxygen, especially the bone, MSM is helpful against arthritic pain, bone spurs, bone growth, which causes pain, especially around the joint area. It won't significantly normalize bone growth and you need other supplements along with this, including magnesium (preferably magnesium chloride, or trimagnesium citrate, being my favorite) and some vitamin D, preferably 5000 mg, and perhaps some fish collagen, after the pain has been reduce of course, by killing off the organism that causes bone spurs. Large doses of B1 thiamine, in particular thiamine mononitrate. It's the mononitrate portion that has some antifungal properties against this that also kills the bone spur, but the dose required maybe fairly large, such as 1000-2000 mg a couple of times a day. The healing is seen after they are dead, after supplementing for about a month, through the use of vitamin D 5000 i.u., every other day, plus collagen supplements, preferably fish collagen, but in Thailand we have a delicacy, ox's tail soup, which is also rich in collagen, but pig's feet is also high in collagen also. Other collagen promoting supplements, which holds the bone matrix in place includes, proline, glycine, and lysine is seen as helpful and raising the immune system, to fight off existing pathogen is supportive, such as threonine. Most amino acid supplements such as lysine, proline, glycine, threonine for immune system dose is between 500 mg to 2000 mg. The preferred dose being 1000 mg, a couple of times a day, preferably three times a day. These help healing. Most pain is seen to reduce using MSM, but DMSO is possible also, but the dose taken for DMSO is much more limited then MSM, and hence MSM is preferably use. Notwithstanding it's ability to oxygenate deeply into the bone is seen as helpful against bone cancer, due to their anaerobic fermentative properties and may reduce that should the bone growth be of cancer causing and will turn them from malignant to benign one at that."
Replies09/19/2010: Juanita from Lake Villa, Il replies: "Hi Ted, I read your suggestions for Heel Spurs. I've had one for over 2 years now with no relief in sight. Your suggestions mentions MSM, can you tell me what that is? My thirteen year old son is now complaining of pain on his left heel and I would love to be able to find a solution for both of us. I would appreciate any info you can provide. Thank you."
EC: More about MSM here: http://earthclinic.com/Supplements/MSM.html
11/16/2010: Liz from San Francisco, Ca replies: "Regarding taking MSM 2000mg every hour for six hours - so take 12,000mg a day? Can someone take too much? After doing this for two weeks, then begin the other supplements you mention or take them while taking the MSM?
Thanks, Liz"
11/17/2010: Francisca from Michelbach-le-bas, Alsace, France replies: "Liz, I am reading a book on MSM at the moment. Funny enough they only talk about MSM as if there is only one strength. I was hoping it would help me with my awful allergies as nothing else does but I have read the side effects people here had and also my husband who is a chemist says I should never take it as it is an oxidant. I don't know.... As far as the information in the book it seems to be great for quite a few ailments...... But I have to confess that I am afraid to try!"
11/17/2010: Lee from New York, Usa replies: "Hi Ladies, I love this website and have integrated many ideas into my health routine over the past 2 years. I'm also not particularly brave about trying things (I have yet to use the food grade h202, although I'd like to). But I have been using MSM for the past 3 months. Mine is 2.6 g. Per 1/2 teaspoon. I make a drink out of 1/2 teaspoon MSM, juice of 1/4 lemon, 1/2 teaspoon turmeric, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, mixed into 8 oz organic veggie juice. I swallow the rest of my vitamins with this drink (which include HA) and I have not had any negative side effects. I do a tremendous amount of walking and would like to be able to continue to do so in my old age. I was beginning to have some aches in my feet and knees, and it seems as though this mixture, plus the HA have cured me. I also have springtime alergies, and am hopeful that the MSM might help with them. I'll keep you posted, but for me, MSM is a winner. Best of luck. Lee"
11/17/2010: Martibee from Milwaukee, Wi., U S A replies: "Msm doesn't necessarily do anything for allergies, but local bee pollen works very well. Try it. You need to start with one teaspoon a day and gradually increase amount till you reach the level that works for you. I used it about 10 years ago when I lived in an area of U.S. Where there was a high mold count and heavy air polution. I had to take 4 Tablespoons Bee Pollen daily and I didn't need any medications. But you do need to work up to the level you need, gradually. MSM is a biological form of sulphur. Every body needs sulphur. It's vital for our bodies."
11/18/2010: Francisca from Michelbach-le-bas, Alsace, France replies: "Well, as far as I know there aren't any local pollens here being sold in the shops. I have seen pollens and even taken them but they are surely not from here. Another problem is that so far my allergies were never connected to one season or to pollens. I know that our bodies contain sulfur but they contain MSG as well and still this is not something we should be taking. I am finishing reading my book on MSM, I have to say that it sounds good. The book is written by two doctors with a lot of experience of treating patients with MSM for many years still, my husband, a chemist says I shouldn't take it as it is an oxidant and could cause cancer, I have read the side effect of members of this site..... I don't know what to do. At the moment my allergies are bad and nothing I do seems to change that. They say that it really helps against allergies."
11/18/2010: Bess from Calgary, Alberta, Canada replies: "Hi Francisca - For allergies, I take about 1,000 mg quercetin (plus bromelain - an enzyme, which seems to help quercetin do its job). I also take 1,000 mg of MSM (powdered form) and mix it with about 3 ounces of water, then add 500 mg of Vitamin C (powdered form). Hope this works for you! Cheers, Bess"
[YEA] 12/19/2010: Coregon from Medford, Or replies: "Regarding MSM and allergies, I have faithfully taken this one supplement daily without fail for over 20 years. I used to have pollen allergies so bad that I would stay inside and look out the window on beautiful days in the summer. If I went outside for any amount of time my eyes would swell and itch and my lungs would immediately congest. As a desperate last resort I'd get steroid injections monthly for allergies (was I crazy??)I live in an area where pollen counts are very high and many allergy sufferers around me, but I haven't had a single allergy episode since about a month after I started MSM supplements. I take 3,000 mg a day, sometimes more. It also helps my joints, my hair, my nails, my skin (am told I look years younger than my age). MSM is what normally comes down in rainwater.. That is the rain water that we USED to have before acid rain. It used to be in our our fruits and vegetables naturally when rain was healthy. I would think it would almost be impossible to overdose on this natural healthy supplement. It also helps you absorb the rest of your vitamins and neutralizes a lot of the bad effects of any medications you are on. Great stuff!
Oh one other thing, all my life I have been severely allergic to cats. I have no problem with cats at all now with MSM supplements! I can hold them and pet them, no reaction. When I first started MSM, I spoke personally to Rich (of Rich's MSM.. Now sold under another name). Very knowledgeable and kind man who was severely burned in an accident.. MSM changed his life by healing old burn scars (used in lotion). Would be well worth getting a book on MSM, the benefits are too great to list here. Although I started using Rich's MSM, I now use whatever brand is on sale, they all seem to work great."
12/19/2010: Francisca from Michelbach-le-bas, Alsace, France replies: "Dear Coregon, nice to hear your testimony about how MSM helped your allergies. After reading a book on MSM I am thinking of buying it when I go to Britain to spend Christmas (we live next to Switzerland but there they are not allowed to sell it and here in France it is very expensive). When the book section is ready I will post my review on that book and I have just ordered a new one so I will post both reviews soon."
01/28/2011: Michael from Augusta, Georgia, Us replies: "Hi Ted...
I've been taking 2000mg of MSM for approx 3 weeks now and my pain has been reduced significantly. On a scale of 1-10 my pain before being a 10 it is now a 3 at worst. I do take other vitamins... B6, B12, Natural Calcium with D, C, and Fish Oil. Also take 4 Ibuprofin as well. I am so thankful for the pain reduction. It is such a painful problem and I was very frustrated with the pain. Thanks for the insight and wisdom."
09/11/2011: Lou from Tyler, Tx replies: "I read somewhere the simple cure for this is Grapefruit Seed Extract capsules."
| Reply to this Thread | Email | Print | Back to Top |
09/25/2009: Brook from Ny, Ny writes: "Ted:
My husband has a large bone spur on top of his foot and runs to the side of his foot. He acquired this through a trauma to his foot, years ago. He has started soaking his foot in Borax and a bit of chlorox. How long will it take the bone spur to go away? Also, when he soaks, he notices his bone spurs hurts. Is this a good sign?
Please let me know.
Thank you."
09/27/2009: Leelannee from Sussex, Nj replies: "Brook, I had bone spurs on my wrists for many years. I took a certain type of calcium, and they dissolved and haven't grown back. Please email if you would like more information."
10/20/2009: Brooke from Ny, Ny replies: "Please let me know the full details of the supplements: how many milligrams, what kind of calcium and if any other ingredients. How long did it take? Thank you."
| Reply to this Thread | Email | Print | Back to Top |
[YEA] 09/09/2009: Connie from Diana, Tx writes: "I tore my achilles about 3 weeks ago on a cool down part of dance video..The pain is awful when u first get up in the morning..I couldn't wear my sandals or go barefooted I had to wear my tennis shoe from then on..I started the search for remedies a week ago and seen the Borax Bath..I made a Foot Bath of 1/2 tsp to 1 liter of COLD water and soaked my feet in it for 30 mins every night..The very first night I could feel the pain lessen all the way up calf..You'll have to wear a good shoe..But I was able to start stretching that part back out..I'm only a week into this but so far this has really helped..Many Many thanks Ted.. PS I wish I had looked here alot sooner.."
| Reply to this Thread | Email | Print | Back to Top |
ALFALFA TEA
Ratings:
|
[YEA] 06/05/2006: Carol from Jacksonville, FL writes: "Take Alfalfa Tea several times a day for first 4 wks, then only 3-4 times a wk will be sufficient. Was recommended to me by a co-worker. Works great:)"
| Reply to this Thread | Email | Print | Back to Top |
APPLE CIDER VINEGAR WRAP
Ratings:
|
[NAY] 07/06/2009: Lori from Lincoln, NE writes: "I used the ACV wrap at night w a bag around my foot for 7 days and saw no relief at all. And it stunk up my house and my bedding. Not worth it!"
Replies[YEA] 07/06/2009: Donna Hyde from Lincoln, NE replies: "have you all tryed to drink organic apple citer vinigar? taking it internaly works better than putting it on your skin. i had a spur on my foot the vinigar desolved it. i was taking the vinigar to clean out my body. i was taking 1/4 cup in a glass of water 2 times aday. i did it for 1 month. it works."
[YEA] 04/05/2010: Cde from Post Falls, Id replies: "My very active 10 year old daughter was suffering for two weeks trying to play soccer, etc but in so much pain she couldn't walk. We took her to the doctor where he Dx her with plantar fasciitis and gave her exercises/stretches which she tried with no immediate success, and stopped doing them. My dad recommended apple cider vinegar (acv) baking soda and this site. She took 2 Tbsp ACV and 1 tsp baking soda (use a tall glass) in a little juice, twice a day. After ONE day of this she noticed the pain was minimal and she could easily participate in her soccer practices. The pain was completely GONE after a few weeks. She continued taking the mixture for awhile preventatively. It was explained to me that the ACV helps balance out the bodies pH levels which can help with many issues. "
| Reply to this Thread | Email | Print | Back to Top |
05/19/2009: Stella from Gauteng, South Africa writes: "Still trying out the Apple Cider Vinegar on my heel spur. I soaked cotton wool in ACV and squeezed out the excess, it was rather moist."
| Reply to this Thread | Email | Print | Back to Top |
[YEA] 01/25/2009: Ronald from Melbourne, Victoria, Australia writes: "I have had a heel spur for about 4 years. Buying high quality shoes - a well known jogger brand but the black office type helped immensely but didn't get rid of the problem. The other day I went for a 9 KM run and the ankle flared up. I tried the wrap and it is working. Two days later there is almost no sign of it. I highly recommend the ACV wrap."
| Reply to this Thread | Email | Print | Back to Top |
[BETTER BUT NOT CURED] 10/10/2008: Ileana from Miami, Florida writes: "I had had heel spurs for almost a year now. I had try everything (cortisone shot, pills, creams, physical therapy, acupunture, thai massage, foot massage,etc) I had been using the apple cider for more than a week at night. However, I still have the pain. I think it is better. Do you think I should be using the apple cider for longer time?? Please, any recomendation will be apreciated."
Replies[NAY] 10/22/2008: Man from FC, CO replies: "I have had horrible plantar fasciitis pain for year now and have tried everything. My latest attempt was taking ACV too, and it didn't seem to help at all. Other people seem to think it did the trick. I wish I knew a cure. I had to give up running and it's painful to walk."
05/24/2009: Dolly from Everett, WA replies: "I had Plantars Fascitis for a couple years. I used shoes with high arch support, a sandal made in the US, Chaco sandals. I never walked without them in my house even. After a few months it finally went away. It came back a year later, mildly. I made sure to walk only in the shoes indoors too. All gone now. No problem w/ fascitis for 5 yrs. The other problem I found was using a shovel in your garden. DON'T use your foot to press the shovel down.. that is the ultimate insult to the fascia! DO stretch your feet w/ straps, or standing on your toes, like you're reaching for a top shelf, or standing at the edge of a step and stretching your foot that way. Best wishes."
09/11/2011: Lou from Tyler, Tx replies: "I wrapped my feet with ACV soaked flannel overnight in a plastic gallon sized zip-lock bag on each foot. It gave me much relief. I wore Spenco orthotics ($40) in athletic shoes most of the summer. Target has some dress shoe orthotics that are clear and thinner (for when you are better) to wear with wedgies. My foot doctor recommended I wear wedge-heel shoes to support the arch."
| Reply to this Thread | Email | Print | Back to Top |
[YEA] 07/08/2008: Donna from Palm Coast, Florida writes: "Hi this cure is true, the doctor was going to do surgery, But I said NO I wanted to try something first and I did. I tried the apple cider vinger wrap first for about six every night at bedtime I put on the wrap and my heel spur is cured. Thanks alot and God Bless. Donna"
Replies10/22/2008: Man from FC, CO replies: "You did this every night and slept with it like that for 6 nights and the pain went away? Did you wrap it in a plastic bag too?"
| Reply to this Thread | Email | Print | Back to Top |
[YEA] 05/03/2006: Christian from Rowlett, TX writes: "Apple Cider Vinegar cures heel spurs.
Instructions: Soak apple cider vinegar with a cloth and applied on your heel for 6-8 hrs. You can wrap it with a plastic bag around your heel while you sleep. You might need to repeat the process for several days.
Depending on how bad the heel spur, the process will take longer. If the pain is not relieved after doing this process for long period of time, then you might have a different problem and advised to see your doctor."
Replies[YEA] 06/24/2011: Mary from Escanaba, Mi replies: "I am a foot reflexologist and I have been having pain in my heel from what I believe is a heel spur. I had been working on my feet and enduring the pain as I did not want to have cortizone injections. I started wrapping my heel with an ace bandage soaked in ACV. I also starting taking it orally 2 T daily as I have read many other benefits of ACV. Also, a huge plus, the wrap on my heel took away all the built up callus. I am going to wrap my other foot as well!"
| Reply to this Thread | Email | Print | Back to Top |
APPLE CIDER VINEGAR, MOLASSES, BAKING SODA
Ratings:
|
[YEA] 01/17/2007: Tim from Gulf Shores, Alabama writes: "I have been suffering with heel pain for months now and have tried everything, heat, cold, wrapes, Advil, etc, etc.I want you to know that I believe in Dr. and medicine so my wife made this stuff with ACV and said try this for a week once a day so I did. You would not believe this the pain was gone in 3 days. Here is what she gave me. 2 tbsp of ACV 1 tbsp molasses and 1 tsp of baking soda mix well and drink. I can walk barefooted with no pain. I think she got the recipe from this site. Thank you."
Replies03/16/2009: Lorraine Gallegos from Alamosa, Colorado, USA replies: "Hi- I just read the information you posted regarding the ACV, Molasses, & baking soda recipe for heel spurs, and I am going to start it immediately right now, since I have had a hard time walking due to my heel spur and aching ankles, and leg cramps. But the person who posted this didn't say how long and how often during the day or so to take this treatment. Could you please e-mail me and let me know. lorraine"
03/22/2009: Lauren from Sacramento, CA replies: "Lorraine,
I would also like to know how many times per day and for how long they used this treatment, as I also have painful heel spurs and want to try it. If you find out, will you please post the answer here for me? I'd SO appreciate it.
Thanks.
Lauren "
08/11/2009: Mike from Ocean Springs, Ms replies: "I am going try the avc molasses and baking soda treatment for heel spurs how long do you take it?"
[SIDE EFFECTS] 11/30/2009: Trudy from Drumbo, Ontario replies: "I really don't suggest the ACV/molasses/baking soda remedy. Just tried it this morning and it worked like a laxative. I was very sick/nauseous for several hours and after about 30 mins of taking it, had terrible diarrhea."
09/07/2010: Debra Mitchell from Largo, Fl replies: "For the person who had a bad reaction - you probably just shocked your system. I bet if you did try again with a much smaller amount & slowly build up you'd be alright. ACV cures so many things. I bet it is all you need, mixed with water. Good luck."
[YEA] 06/07/2011: Carol from Keller, Texas replies: "I don't know if I have a heel spur or planter fasia, but I read some of your remedies and I just tried organic apple cider vinegar by rubbing and massaging it on my heel and the side of my foot. It is so much better and I didn't have any problem walking when I first got out of bed this morning. I am in no pain and it feels great."
08/16/2011: Roro from Okeechobee, Florida replies: "I am sending this info to my son who is suffering from a heel spur and will update as to how well it performed."
10/03/2011: Shellys70 from Fords, Nj replies: "I just got diagnosed with a heel spur. I'm in pain and I refuse to get shots or surgery. I bought the Apple Cider Vinegar this afternoon- pray for me this works. I teach boot camp and am a personal trainer this would destroy me.. Prayers please trying it tonight. I will update you all. Thanks.."
[YEA] 02/03/2012: Joan from South Riding, Virginia Usa replies: "Around April 2011, while doing heavy exercises, I got what I thought was another bout of plantar fasciitis. I tried stretching my foot and my calf. I tried homeopathic remedies. I tried 12 weeks of acupuncture. I tried Chinese herbs. While many of these reduced the pain for a while, none took it away. In December 2011 my chiropracter suggested that plantar fasciitis does not last that long and perhaps it was a heel spur. I had my foot x-rayed and, lo and behold, there was a heel spur identified.I immediately began researching "Natural Heel Spur" remedies and can upon the Earth Clinic site. I read this post about ACV, molasses and baking soda, as well as MSM, and began them all the first week of January. I also added calcium/magnesium supplements. After about a week the pain was subsiding. After two weeks, I stopped taking the Chinese herbs. It was about that time that I stopped adding molasses to my ACV/baking soda beverage. Then I stopped the MSM, as I was feeling lightheaded whenever I took it.
By the end of Week 3, my heel spur was nearly gone. I could push on the area and feel it was slightly tender. By Week 4 (last week), my heel spur was gone. Vanished. Melted away. My foot no longer has the feeling of walking around with a nail stuck in it. While I have to be careful while my foot gets stronger, I can walk short distances without pain. ACV is a lifesaver. ACV works, if you give it time. I believe the way to distinguish between Plantar Fasciitis and a heel spur is the difference between foot pain and feeling like a nail is in your heel. The nail/heel pain signals a heel spur. Try it, and good luck!"
| Reply to this Thread | Email | Print | Back to Top |
BOOTS
Ratings:
|
[YEA] 10/26/2006: T from Denver, CO writes: "My husband used to have a heel spur, but it completely went away after he started wearing boots a lot. Apparently the back of your shoe can irritate your heel and cause a heel spur, but not so with boots because they go all the way up the back of your calf."
Replies05/22/2009: Amanda from Cleveland, Ohio replies: "Hi, that sounds like a terrific and simple remedy, but I wanted to point out that the condition that you are describing is not a heal spur. Heal spurs are on the under side of the foot and are due to prolonged cases of plantar fasciitis in which the fascia becomes detached from the bone and a little bump of bone grows in its place. It is the damage to the fascia that causes the pain, not the bone spur itself."
05/22/2009: Amanda from Cleveland, Ohio replies: "Hi, that sounds like a terrific and simple remedy, but I wanted to point out that the condition that you are describing is not a heal spur. Heal spurs are on the under side of the foot and are due to prolonged cases of plantar fasciitis in which the fascia becomes detached from the bone and a little bump of bone grows in its place. It is the damage to the fascia that causes the pain, not the bone spur itself."
| Reply to this Thread | Email | Print | Back to Top |
BRACE, INSOLES, EXERCISES
Ratings:
|
[YEA] 07/29/2009: Bimal Kanal from Shanghai, China writes: "Heel Pain / Spur
I have suffered acute heel pain caused by a condition described as heel spur since 2004.The treatment which has given me 99% relief was very simple which unfortunatley was introduced only in 2009 by a sports medical specialist.
The person needs to wear a night brace on the foot for a period of time. I wore it for one month before i coild see any improvement. The nigh brace is available in large pharmacies. This costed me HKD150 only.
secondly, please meet a podiatric specialist in a hospital and get the insouls for yr shoes. These in souls are specialy made and cannot be purchased over the counter. These are expensive as i paid HKD 2500 for a pair.
Thirdly, there are two simple excercises that should be done. One is to sit on the floor and stretch yr legs. Take a towel and put it accross yr toes of the foot and pull the toes towards yrself.
the second excercise is to stand against the wall with one foot forward and strech the second leg which is at the back.
The logic here is that from the spine to the heel the flexibility should be improved.
A lot of rest is needed for acute case as the heel is swollen in some cases."
08/15/2009: Kelly from San Francisco, Ca replies: "I've been suffering from acute plantar fasciitis for about 5 years now. I've tried stretches, exercises, ice, and APC with very little luck, so I finally started on cortezone injections, which only had minimal short term effect. I've recently tried an arch band that has helped exponentially. I can't name the brand, but I found it on a dancer supply website.
It's a fabric band that you wrap around your arch. It has a velcro tab that sticks to the fabric, so it's highly adjustable. Attached inside the fabric is a triangular hard foam pad that acts as an insole... even in sandals or bare feet! You buys a pair of them, but I have extremely high arches, so I double up on the foot the I have the most problems with. They're washable, but the fabric tends to break down a bit over time.
I wear them 24/7, except when I'm in the shower, and I've gone from not being able to walk on my heel at all, to being able to get up in the middle of the night with only minimal pain. I've been using them for about 1 month now and, though they haven't taken all the pain away, I can walk somewhat normally now."
07/12/2010: Mnj from Northern Illinois, Il/usa replies: "I have been struggling with this heel deal for over a month now. Have done the icing, taken advil for reducing inflammation, reduced my exercise, gotten better shoes, etc. And it was showing little to no improvement. Found a website that said that people with high arches or flat feet tend to suffer from this and a light went off. Went to the local pharmacy and found an arch wrap like you described. ($5. 99) It is made of stretchy material of about 2" wide and fits snugly around my arch. I can walk with no shoes if I have that on. I think the arch support is key to this issue. Or least it is for me. I made a similar wrap around my arches with medical tape before walking this am and that helped relieve some pressure from that exercise."
| Reply to this Thread | Email | Print | Back to Top |
CALCIUM
Ratings:
|
[YEA] 08/15/2009: Laura from Petoskey, Mi writes: "Calcium Supplementation to elliminate heel spurs --
I am a massage therapist. My client had a painful heel spur, his Dr. suggested surgery.
I suggested he take some calcium supplements.
He decided to give it a try. I can't remember how long it took but the pain went away completely and doesn't come back but he continues to take the calcium on a regular basis. I think he eats the ones that come in chocolate.
Let me know if anyone has tried this?"
08/15/2009: Bev from Longbeach, Ca replies: "Hi Laura;
Years ago my Chiropractor had a formula using calcium, i.e., Cal-Acid EM, #325, that he gave to his patients that have heel spurs. His recommendation was to take one tablet every hour until yawning occurred the first day. Then take one tablet every two to three hours for the next five days. Then maintenance was two tablets two to three times per day. Hope this is useful."
| Reply to this Thread | Email | Print | Back to Top |
[YEA] 05/16/2009: Thomas from Missouri City, TX writes: "Heel spur
Calcium -- Yea
A month and a half ago, it was sheer agony just to walk to the mailbox; to get out of bed, I needed a cane. Then I came here and read-up on calcium.
For the past month and a half, I've been blasting calcium into my system with a daily dose of: a multi-vitamin with 162 mg of calcium in it, PLUS a tablet of 600 mg of calcium and 400 I.U. of Vitamin D.
Three days after starting my calcium-blasting, I noticed that I was feeling less pain. Now, a month and a half later, I am PAIN-FREE (except after I stand or walk a lot)."
| Reply to this Thread | Email | Print | Back to Top |
[YEA] 11/25/2008: Mary from Virginia Beach, VA writes: "I would like to let everyone know that I came on this site to see what people were doing to relieve their heel pain because I was having heel pain so bad that I was not able to put any weight on it and was also getting sharp pains through the heel. It got so bad I was almost in tears (and I have a high toleance for pain!) So I had decided to take ________ Calcium (calcium 250mg also has Mag 250mg,Vit D 200 i.u. and 7.5mg zinc as directed 2 tabs twice daily with a meal) and I have to tell you that it worked!!! This morning I woke up and normally I limp for about an hour and then I still have a slight limp but got up and only felt a slight discomfort and was able to walk fine as the day went on!! So I recommend not buying these fly by night remedy pills and go to your local rite sid etc and try it out! Hope this helps anyone that has been in my pain!!"
| Reply to this Thread | Email | Print | Back to Top |
[YEA] 11/22/2006: Mel from Canada writes: "When it comes to heel spurs, there is only one good cure. As we age, we require more and more Calcium because our absorption drops to about 25%. What does this mean? It means that when we don't get enough calcium, our body tries to compensate by getting it from elsewhere in the body. In other words, it takes calcium out of the bones. That is what causes a heel spur, and by taking calcium pills, as well as some other basic vitamins and supplements, you can reverse a heel spur."
| Reply to this Thread | Email | Print | Back to Top |
CASTOR OIL AND VICKS VAPOR RUB
Ratings:
|
[YEA] 03/03/2009: Carol from Weirsdale, Florida writes: "Heel Spurs: Extreme pain in my heels started suddenly and I didn't know what was happening. My boss said that she had had them and had been given very, very painful cortisone injections. She said this may help for 5 years. I hate needles, so remembering that castor oil was very good for many things, massaged it into my feet along with Vicks vapo rub or any similar product and within 2 weeks, no more pain. I then was able to go overseas and walk 5 miles and no pain except I had a huge water pouch on the bottom of my feet when I returned. Rested feet 2 days, water reabsorbed into body and have had no reoccurance for 10 years.
Also, just came home from Thailand with aching, dragging leg and sore knees. I read the blogs on black strap molasses and ACV and have been taking daily and muscle ache in leg has gone, knees much better, so am a happy camper. Just have to try not to overdo my walking and climbing steep steps at 75 years of age. Also used the castor oil and Vicks massage on knees. Don't know why this worked, but no harm in trying it to get relief."
[BETTER BUT NOT CURED] 03/14/2011: Elaine from Edmond, Oklahoma, Usa replies: "I have been using this rememdy on my husband for about two weeks now. Both of his feet were very painful. Each evening I sit and massage his feet for about a half with the castor oil and vapo rub. The vapo rub is a dollar jar I bought at the dollar store. Very slowly his feet are improving. Before on a scale of one to ten, ten being the most his feet hurt, he is now a three and only on his right heel. I love this site!"
| Reply to this Thread | Email | Print | Back to Top |
COCONUT OIL
Ratings:
|
[YEA] 04/12/2007: Kim from Bluefield, WV writes: "Coconut Oil Eliminated Pain from Heel Spur: I began taking Coconut Oil capsules 10 days ago to reduce blood pressure and cholesterol and possibly loose a little weight. Within 3 days of taking the capsules (4 per day) the pain from a heel spur I had suffered with for appx. 8 years vanished. I have had the horribly painful shots (which helped only temporarily) and tried many other remedies (with little to no success). My heel pain has completely subsided. I am able to do aerobics again, which I have not been able to do without severe heel pain for many years. It has truly been a miracle for me!"
| Reply to this Thread | Email | Print | Back to Top |
ENZYMATIC THERAPY
Ratings:
|
[YEA] 01/07/2008: Earl from Rialto, CA writes: "I had heel spur for 2 or 3 years and I was looking at Surgery on my heels, I was telling my boss I might be out of work for 3-4 months. Then one day I went to a health store with my dad and a lady ask me if I need help and I said do you have any thing for heel spurs, She said yes Acid-A-Cal took it for 2-3 weeks and felt big big diffence.so I kept taking it 3-4 bottles later Heel spur are all gone 4 years later no problems."
Replies[YEA] 02/23/2009: Lauren from Mountain View, CA replies: "Today I woke up and realized that the bone spur on the back of my foot has disappeared! Thank you so much Earl from Rialto, CA for the Acid-A-Cal recommendation. I started taking Acid-A-Cal and Apple Cider Vinegar supplements (capsules) twice a day, in 3 days the pain was gone, in one week that unsightly tiny devil's thorn disappeared! Oh my god, I'm so thankful for alternative medicine and all the natural supplements advice posted on this site."
09/10/2010: Belinda from O-town, Fl,usa replies: "Did the calcium actually shrink the spur? My foot doctor informed me that X-rays indicate that my spur is growing longer each year. I've figured out how to handle the pain but not how to shrink the spur."
| Reply to this Thread | Email | Print | Back to Top |
FOAM ROLLER
Ratings:
|
[BETTER BUT NOT CURED] 05/08/2009: Anna from Austin, TX writes: "I've had the plantar fasciitis pretty bad for over a month. I couldn't even walk around the house without being in real pain. I used a firm, foam roller and had one of my kids add a little weight to roll out my calves from the knees down. The very next day the pain was very managable. It's like getting a deep massage. Much more effective than just stretching. The heels still hurt when I stand or sit in one spot for too long. I'm guessing that's the calcium deposit. I'm going to try the ACV treatment. I'm a runner and I'm tired of being sidelined."
Replies[YEA] 06/22/2011: Laura from Woodberry, Nsw replies: "re plantar fasciitis and heel spur...the only long time relief I have found are those new walker rocker shoes..... i had tried a lot of things... the stretches, massage, pain killers....these shoes work and if I chose I could again use my other shoes... not sure for how long though...these are the shoes with the curved sole.... they stop the heel strike...."
08/25/2011: Cathy from Roanoke, Va replies: "Sketchers have now come out with a newly designed shoe that is awesome! If purchasing the heavier, larger profile "rocker", please use caution with wearing these - you need to break them in gradually - meaning gradually wear them longer each time you put them on. I've talked to a few people who have had pulled tendons and other problems from putting them on and wearing them for long periods of time without slowly breaking them in.The newest shoes are softer, the sole is split to make it very flexible, and they weigh next to nothing. I am very pleased with them and didn't have to break them in much as the profile is smaller. After my raves, two other friends of mine bought them and love them as well. I am hopeful that this will help me continue to walk regularly and that they soft soles will hold up and not break down quickly. Koodos to Sketcher for coming up with these shoes!!
I am dealing the a heel spur now along with tendonitis in my elbow. Both occured at the same time after a minor accident from getting trapped beneath a large trash can that was filled to the brim with rocks, soil, and grass clumps. I figured the shock to my system may have been the cause of the two. I am going to give some of the ideas here a try and will post my results as things progress. After reading many suggestions, and because I am cautious as to what I put into and onto my body, I believe I'll begin with taking the AVC (hope I can handle the taste! ) and increase my calcium, magnesium (aids in calcium absorption), and vita D - all of which you need more of as you age anyway. I will strongly suggest purchasing only good quality suppliments and stay away from drug store, grocery store brands. Do your homework when shopping for suppliments and consider only using those purchased from natural food stores or Shak.... products (don't know if I can name specific companies or not)."
| Reply to this Thread | Email | Print | Back to Top |
FOOT STRETCH
Ratings:
|
[YEA] 12/31/2010: Rexe from Junction City, Ar writes: "This is what I did for plantars fasciiatis, stand straight facing a wall. Place your well foot to the wall, move the sore foot away from the wall-behind you- until you feel a good streach in the back of your leg stretch and release, stretch and release, do this 3 or 4 times, the next day do the same thing, you probably will not notice any change except you can move the sore foot back farther each day, keep doing it everyday, soon the problem will be gone, and you will have no heel pain. It has worked for me and a family member."
| Reply to this Thread | Email | Print | Back to Top |
[YEA] 02/05/2010: Corinna from London, Kent, England writes: "I suffered months with debilitating foot pain (plantar fasciitis). Eventually, I found a ridiculously simple cure: Simply stretch the sole of your foot as you take slow steps. Roll over the ball of your feet gently, leave the toes on the ground and then stretch the sole of your feet for a second or two. Repeat 10 to 20 times several times a day. The foot pain got immediately better and generally subsided during the course of 2 or 3 weeks. I have since been pain free for one year."
| Reply to this Thread | Email | Print | Back to Top |
GENERAL FEEDBACK
07/19/2011: Shuzchic from Nyc, Ny writes: "Hi Ted - Please confirm for me - as I am suffering terribly with heel spurs -
2000mg an hour for 6hours - so 12,000mg a day??? or 2000 mg every 6rs for 8000mg per day??"
| Reply to this Thread | Email | Print | Back to Top |
1 |  |