Are you suffering from pain in your heel, as if there is a thorn under your skin? This may be due to heel spurs or plantar fasciitis, which is the tissue that connects the heel bone to the toes. This inflammation usually causes swelling and puffiness, making it difficult to walk or move for long periods. Therefore, orthopedic doctors recommend using topical and oral anti-inflammatories, and cortisone may be used in severe cases to relieve pain. In this article, through the Dalili Medical website, we will review the best ointment to treat heel spurs, in addition to its components and prices in Egyptian pharmacies.
A heel spurs is an inflammatory condition that affects the plantar fascia as a result of overuse or incorrect stretching, which leads to swelling, and often occurs in one foot.
The plantar fascia is a strong fibrous ligament that extends from the heel to the instep and toes, and is responsible for maintaining the natural arch of the bottom of the foot, and it also has the ability to stretch.
There are some oils that can be used to treat bone spurs, such as: lavender oil, sesame oil, thyme oil, rosemary oil, and orange oil.
Yes, as studies and research have shown that the recovery rate from bone spurs is very high, exceeding 90%, but this depends on the different treatment methods used.
It is diagnosed using X-rays.
**Are bone spurs and plantar fasciitis considered chronic diseases?**
No, they are not chronic diseases. By adhering to the best available treatment methods for bone spurs, you can get rid of the pain permanently. However, in some cases that suffer from obesity, gout, or arthritis, or as a result of walking and running for long periods, symptoms may appear again after treatment.
The treatment period for heel spurs or plantar fasciitis ranges from 6 to 9 months.
The pain is usually caused by plantar fasciitis rather than the heel spurs themselves.
Following a healthy lifestyle and exercising regularly can prevent many diseases, including heel spurs and plantar fasciitis.
**Prohibited foods for heel spurs**
Heel spurs are annoying conditions that may result from being overweight or having high levels of salts in the blood. To prevent the risk of developing them, it is recommended to follow the following guidelines:
1. Avoid eating foods that cause rapid weight gain.
2. Work on losing weight to reduce pressure and stress on the feet.
3. Stay away from foods rich in uric acid and purine, which are found in abundance in red meat, lamb, liver, tuna, herring, duck, and chicken.
4. Avoid juices that contain fructose sugar, such as those found in figs, mangoes, tomatoes, and strawberries.
5. Do not overeat some legumes such as beans, beans, cauliflower, and mushrooms.
6. Avoid all types of nuts, as they can lead to high levels of uric acid in the blood, which increases the risk of developing bone spurs.
7. Avoid all types of soft drinks, due to their negative impact on bone health.
Bone spurs are considered one of the diseases that fall under the category of bone and joint diseases, as they affect the heel area and cause many annoying symptoms. Among the best effervescents used to treat them are:
**Effervescent Catafast**
Effervescent Catafast is considered one of the most prominent medications for treating bone spurs, as it is highly effective. Catafast is used to treat cases of rheumatism and osteoporosis, and is a powerful anti-inflammatory, which helps relieve joint and bone inflammation.
**Diclotasin Effervescent**
Diclotasin Effervescent is no less effective than Catafast in treating bone spurs, as it contains the active ingredient diclofenac, which helps relieve chronic pain resulting from bone inflammation.
**Reasons for use**
It is used to treat bone spurs.
It is used to treat inflammation resulting from ear and throat infections.
It is used as a treatment for rheumatism.
**Contraindications**
It is prohibited for people with kidney or liver problems.
**Dosage**
The patient takes a dose ranging from one to three sachets, depending on the severity of the condition.
Distribute an appropriate amount of anti-inflammatory cream or gel on the heel.
Then, gently massage the area in circular motions for 2 to 3 minutes until it is completely absorbed by the skin.
Try to avoid standing for long periods to speed up the healing process.
There are many factors and daily activities that may lead to heel spurs and plantar fasciitis, in addition to some pathological causes. The most prominent of these causes are:
. **Obesity and weight gain**: This leads to increased pressure on the feet and stretching of the tendons of the sole of the foot.
. **Age**: The incidence of heel spurs increases among people between the ages of 40 and 60.
. **Gender differences**: Women are more likely to develop heel spurs than men, and pregnancy may be one of the reasons that lead to additional pressure on the feet.4. **Reiter's Syndrome**: It is a group of chronic diseases that affect the joints, and can affect children and adults.
. **Wearing inappropriate shoes**: such as tight shoes or those that lack support for the sole of the foot, or shoes that do not absorb shock while walking or running.
. **Some sports activities**: such as running and walking for long periods, where the heel and sole of the foot are exposed to repeated pressure over a short period of time.
. **Gout**.
. **Standing or walking for long periods**: This may be the result of some professions.
. **Lack of water**: As drinking small amounts of water exacerbates the problem.
These factors require attention and care to avoid developing bone spurs and plantar fasciitis.
. Voltaren Gel Voltaren Gel is used to treat joint and bone inflammation, as it helps relieve pain and stiffness, and improves joint movement, especially in the back, spine, neck, shoulders, elbows, knees, ankles and heels.
Voltaren Gel is produced by the British company Glaxo (GSK plc).
**Voltaren Gel Ingredients**
Voltaren Gel contains Diclofenac sodium, which belongs to the category of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and helps relieve pain and treat various joint and bone inflammations.
**. Algason Cream**Algason Cream is used to treat joint and bone inflammation, as it helps relieve pain and stiffness associated with them, which improves joint movement.
The cream also helps relieve muscle pain and fatigue, especially in athletes, thanks to its camphor and menthol content, which work to dilate blood vessels, relieve pain and cool the affected area.
**Algason Cream Ingredients**Algason Cream consists of the following ingredients:
- **Diethylamine Salicylate**: It is a derivative of salicylic acid, and is classified as a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID).
- **Menthol**.
- **Camphor**.
**. Bristaflam Cream**Bristaflam Cream is used to treat arthritis and osteoporosis, as it helps relieve pain and stiffness associated with these conditions, which helps improve joint movement.
Bristaflam Cream is a product of the American multinational company Bristol Myers Squibb BMS.
**Ingredients of Prestaflam Cream**Prestaflam Cream contains Aceclofenac, which is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug.
**Moov Cream**Moov Cream is considered one of the best ointments for treating heel pain, for the following reasons:
- It contains capsaicin, which helps relieve pain.
- It contains methyl salicylate, which helps dilate blood vessels in the muscles, which enhances the effectiveness of pain relief.
- It contains menthol, which provides immediate pain relief.
- It contains camphor oil, known for its anti-inflammatory properties, as it is characterized by its ability to fight viruses and bacteria.
**. Myorel Cream**Myorel Cream is used to treat inflammation of the joints, tendons and ligaments, and it also helps relieve pain and relax tense and stiff muscles, which facilitates movement, especially for football players and athletes. This is due to its unique formula rich in natural oils that have anti-inflammatory properties.
Murel Cream is a product of Leader Company, which belongs to the Original Pharma Group.
**Murel Cream Ingredients**
Murel Cream includes the following ingredients:
- Methyl salicylate
- Turpentine oil
- Peppermint oil
- Peanut oil
- Eucalyptus oil
- Clove extract
- Stearic acid
- Mineral oil
**. Sulfax Cream**Sulfax Cream works to reduce joint and bone inflammation resulting from aging, injuries or osteoporosis, and also contributes to relieving the pain and stiffness associated with them.
Salvex cream is a product of the Egyptian Parkville Pharmaceutical Company.
**Salvex cream ingredients**Salvex cream includes the following ingredients:
- **Cetyl Myristoleate CMO**, which contributes to reducing the production of prostaglandins and leukotrienes, which are responsible for inflammation and pain.
**Eucalyptus oil**:
**Menthol**:
**Camphor**:
*. Rubalgine cream**:Rubalgine cream is a product of Cairo Pharmaceuticals & Chemical Industries Company. This cream is used to treat inflammation of joints, bones, tendons and ligaments, and also contributes to relieving the pain associated with them, including bone spurs. In addition, the cream helps facilitate joint movement, thanks to its formula rich in anti-inflammatory and natural oils.
**Rubalgin Cream Ingredients**:Rubalgin Cream contains the following ingredients that contribute to the treatment of joint inflammation and bone spurs:
- Methyl salicylate
- Camphor
- Turpentine oil
- Peppermint oil
- Menthol
- Pepper resins: Oleoresin of capsicum
**Alpha Kadol Ointment**Contains mAlpha Kadol ointment contains two active ingredients: chymotrypsin, which is used to combat swelling resulting from inflammation, as it helps remove inflammation residues and absorb excess fluids that cause swelling. In addition, it contains phenylbutazone, which acts as an anti-inflammatory and pain reliever.
This ointment is considered one of the best options for treating bone spurs and the resulting swelling, and is also used to relieve pain resulting from injuries and inflammation in the muscles and ligaments. However, it should be noted that it may cause a decrease in the number of white blood cells and aplastic anemia when used for long periods.
**Saligesic Gel**This gel consists of two active ingredients: dexamethasone and salicylic acid.
It is used to treat inflammation, redness and swelling, and it also relieves pain resulting from bone spurs and heel inflammation associated with gout and plantar fasciitis. It can also be used to relieve pain from bone and muscle inflammation in any area of the body.
Salgesic gel is not significantly absorbed into the bloodstream, making it an effective and safe option for people with chronic diseases or who take multiple medications orally or by injection, as well as patients who are prohibited from using painkillers or cortisone.
- Rheumafen Acti-Gel 1%It is a topical gel that contains diclofenac sodium, which belongs to the class of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
It relieves bone spurs pain and treats inflammation and swelling in the bones, muscles and joints.
Dosage: It is recommended to apply an appropriate amount of Rheumafen Acti-Gel to the heel twice daily.
This gel works topically and is not significantly absorbed into the blood, but if irritation, redness or itching appears on the skin, it is preferable to consult a doctor.
**- Rheumatizen Topical Cream**It consists of methyl salicylate, which acts as a vasodilator and pain reliever for the musculoskeletal system. It also contains menthol, which relieves congestion and provides an immediate feeling of relief. In addition, it contains camphor oil extract, which has an antibacterial and antiviral effect, and works as a pain reliever and anti-inflammatory.
**How to use:** Apply a sufficient amount of cream to the affected area with gentle massage, twice a day (every 12 hours).
Rheumatisin cream works topically and does not significantly enter the bloodstream, making it free of side effects in other organs or any drug interactions.
**- Heatapsin Cream **The active ingredient in Heatapsin cream is capsaicin, also known as red pepper extract.
This cream works as an anti-inflammatory and topical analgesic for heel pain, heel pain, muscles, tendons, and joints. It also enhances blood flow to the affected area, which helps get rid of inflammatory waste and chemicals that cause pain.
Using Hetapsin cream may cause redness, itching, and irritation of the skin, and may cause burns of varying degrees if used excessively.
It is prohibited for patients with asthma and high blood pressure, as well as during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It is also recommended not to apply it to irritated, inflamed, cracked skin, or to wounds and burns.
**- Pain Free Gel**Pain Free Gel is considered one of the top 10 ointments for treating bone spurs, thanks to its hydrocortisone content, which helps relieve severe inflammation and sensitivity. It also contains salicylic acid, which acts as an effective pain reliever for bone and joint pain and acute inflammation.
Pain Free Gel can also be used to treat acute gouty arthritis, plantar fasciitis, and joint osteoarthritis.
It is recommended to apply an appropriate amount of gel to the heel with gentle massage twice daily, or as directed by a doctor.
It should be avoided on cracked skin or on wounds, burns, and ulcers.
**Cryotherapy for bone spurs**There are many methods that doctors use to relieve and treat bone spurs pain, including cryotherapy and shock waves, which include the following:
1. **Cryotherapy**: This method is used to treat plantar fasciitis and bone spurs, as it relies on cooling and electromagnetic energy to relieve pain.
2. **Ice application**: Placing a piece of ice on the area of pain resulting from the bone spurs is an effective method, as it is recommended to apply ice for a period ranging from ten to fifteen minutes. This method helps reduce swelling and pain after a long day of standing and walking. The feet can also be massaged with ice to speed up the reduction of swelling.
3. **Shock wave therapy for bone spurs**: This method is considered safe, as high-energy shock waves are used to help get rid of the bone spurs. However, the results of this method may not be guaranteed or highly effective, but it is used as an alternative to avoid surgery.
**Massage:** Massaging the arch of the foot is an effective way to relieve pain, reduce swelling and inflammation, and also helps greatly in improving movement. This is done by massaging the foot using the fingers for a period ranging from one to five minutes.
**Night splints:** The use of night splints shows quick and effective results for many patients with bone spurs. It is preferable to wear them while sleeping to relieve pain associated with bone spurs and symptomsPlantar fasciitis.
**Shoe insoles:** Using soft shoe insoles helps greatly in relieving the pain caused by heel spurs. It is recommended to use soft and thick insoles to provide additional support and comfort to the foot, which reduces pressure on the heel spurs.
**Treatment of heel spurs through exercise**
Stretching exercises can help treat heel spurs. Here are a set of exercises that can be performed:
1. **Calf Stretch**: This exercise can be performed by placing your hands on the wall, then straightening the knee of the affected leg and bending the other knee forward, while keeping both feet flat on the ground. Continue the stretch for 10 seconds, and repeat the stretch 2-3 times.
2. **Rolling Stretch**: Placing a round object under the foot and rolling it back and forth can relax the foot muscles and relieve muscle tension and inflammation. A rolling pin, golf ball, or foam ball can be used for this exercise.
3. **Towel Curl**: Curling a towel or any piece of cloth using your toes can stretch your foot and leg muscles. This exercise can be done regularly to achieve the best results.
The towel curl is an exercise that can help strengthen your foot and leg muscles by curling a towel or any piece of cloth using your toes. This exercise can be performed by sitting on a chair with your legs straight, then placing a small towel in front of your feet. After that, try to grab the towel using your toes and roll it towards your heels. It is recommended to repeat this process five times.
**Treating bone spurs with herbs and essential oils**
Essential oils can help treat bone spurs and reduce inflammation. Among the essential oils used are:
- Lavender essential oil
- Lemon essential oil
- Camphor oil
- Rose essential oil
It is important to dilute essential oils with a carrier oil, such as coconut oil or olive oil, before using them for massage. Essential oils can also be used to treat bone spurs by inhaling steam mixed with hot water.
As for treating bone spurs through nutrition, some nutritional supplements and nutrients may help speed up the healing process and repair tissue. These include:
- Vitamin C
- Zinc
- Glucosamine
- Bromelain
- Fish oil
Bone spurs are a disturbing medical condition that many people suffer from, as they cause pain and discomfort while walking and performing daily activities. Although it is difficult to treat them permanently, prevention is the best way to alleviate symptoms and reduce potential complications. In this guide, we will review some effective ways to prevent bone spurs:
1. **Avoid wearing high-heeled shoes**: Wearing high-heeled shoes is one of the main factors that increase the risk of developing bone spurs. The height of the heel may negatively affect the balance and geometry of the foot, which leads to increased pressure on the bone and its deformity over time. Therefore, it is recommended to reduce the use of high-heeled shoes, especially for women.
2. **Protect your feet from injuries**: When walking in public places or anywhere else, it is essential to protect your feet from potential injuries. It is preferable to avoid walking barefoot for long periods of time, as direct impacts can lead to the formation of bone spurs. Use comfortable shoes that fit the foot, and be careful to avoid infection or contamination.
Make sure to maintain a healthy weight: Excess weight puts additional pressure on the feet and bones, which may increase the risk of developing bone spurs. Therefore, it is important to maintain an appropriate weight by exercising regularly and following a balanced diet. It is preferable to consult a nutritionist to determine your ideal weight and receive advice on appropriate healthy foods.
Eat nutritious and healthy foods: Some studies indicate that proper nutrition may play a role in preventing bone spurs and alleviating the symptoms associated with them. Make sure to eat balanced meals that contain essential vitamins and minerals, and avoid excessive consumption of pickles and salty foods.
Do appropriate exercise: Exercise is essential to enhance muscle strength and improve the overall health of the body. You can do some exercises that target strengthening the muscles surrounding the affected joint, such as weight training and stretching exercises. These exercises may help strengthen the bones and reduce the appearance of bone spurs.
Consult a doctor and use appropriate treatments: In addition to the preventive measures mentioned above, it may be necessary to consult a doctor to obtain appropriate treatments. Drug treatment includes the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory painkillers and local injections to relieve pain and inflammation resulting from bone spurs. Physical therapy is also recommended, which includes special foot exercises and sessions using ultrasound and shock waves to improve the general condition of the foot and reduce symptoms.