Bone Spursaccording to TCM

What are Bone Spurs?

Bone spurs, medically known as osteophytes, are bony outgrowths that develop along the edges of bones. These formations often occur in joints where bones meet, such as the knees, spine, shoulders, and hips, but can also appear on any bone in the body.

Bone spurs are typically the body's response to joint damage or age-related degeneration, serving as an attempt to repair or increase the surface area of joint tissue. While they may not always cause symptoms, bone spurs can lead to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility when they rub against other bones or press on nerves.

How does TCM view Bone Spurs?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) regards bone spurs as indicators of a deeper disharmony, described by patterns of imbalance in the body's energy system. A pattern is a snapshot of an ailment, capturing its essence beyond the physical manifestation.

In TCM, determining the exact pattern is vital because it dictates a tailored treatment approach, aiming to rectify the root imbalance, be it in Qi, Blood, Yin, or Yang, rather than merely treating the presenting symptom.

Causes of Bone Spurs According to TCM

Within the Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) framework, bone spurs are often viewed as the result of the invasion of external evils such as Damp, Wind, or Cold. These external factors can obstruct the flow of Qi and blood in the meridians, leading to the formation of bone spurs.

TCM teaches that the body is a landscape where external climatic factors can penetrate and affect internal balance, causing physical manifestations such as bone spurs. The importance of discerning these external influences is paramount, as it guides the practitioner to choose the most appropriate methods to expel these pathogens and restore the body's harmonious state.

TCM Herbal Formulas for Bone Spurs

In the treatment of bone spurs, TCM practitioners turn to formulas and herbs that expel the external evils of Damp, Wind, or Cold, which are believed to be at the root of the condition. The chosen treatment aims to restore the smooth flow of Qi and Blood, thereby alleviating the stagnation that leads to bone spur formation.

The approach is to warm the channels, dispel Cold, dry Dampness, and calm Wind within the body. By addressing these external causes, TCM seeks to prevent the progression of bone spurs and ease the associated discomfort, reflecting its holistic view of healing.

See more details below about Xiao Huo Luo Dan, a herbal formula used to address bone spurs.

TCM Herbs for Bone Spurs

Explore below some TCM herbs used to address bone spurs, organized by herb category.