Ask Ayurveda

/
/
/
What Are Osteophytes, and How Do They Affect Joint Health?
FREE! Ask an Ayurvedic Doctor — 24/7
Connect with Ayurvedic doctors 24/7. Ask anything, get expert help today.
Orthopedic Disorders
Question #15183
174 days ago
222

What Are Osteophytes, and How Do They Affect Joint Health? - #15183

Julian

I recently had an X-ray done on my knee because I’ve been experiencing joint pain and stiffness, and my doctor mentioned that I have osteophytes. I had never heard of osteophytes before, so I started doing some research, and from what I understand, they are bone spurs that form around joints. But what causes them, and how serious are they? Are osteophytes a sign of arthritis, or do they form even in people who don’t have joint diseases? My doctor mentioned that they can develop due to wear and tear over time, but I’m only in my 40s, so I’m wondering if I could have prevented this. The main symptoms I’m experiencing are stiffness, occasional swelling, and reduced flexibility in my knee. Some days, it feels fine, but after long walks or standing for extended periods, the pain gets worse. Could the osteophytes be making my joint space narrower, leading to discomfort? I want to explore natural ways to manage osteophytes before considering any medical treatments. Does Ayurveda offer any herbs, oils, or dietary changes that help reduce bone spurs or improve joint health? I’ve heard that Shallaki (Boswellia), Ashwagandha, and turmeric are good for joint inflammation—do they actually help with osteophytes? If anyone has been diagnosed with osteophytes, I’d love to hear how you’re managing them. Have you tried any natural remedies or lifestyle changes that worked for you?

FREE
Question is closed
FREE! Ask an Ayurvedic Doctor — 24/7,
100% Anonymous
Get expert answers anytime,
completely confidential.
No sign-up needed.
CTA image

Doctors’ responses

Dr. Harsha Joy
Dr. Harsha Joy is a renowned Ayurvedic practitioner with a wealth of expertise in lifestyle consultation, skin and hair care, gynecology, and infertility treatments. With years of experience, she is dedicated to helping individuals achieve optimal health through a balanced approach rooted in Ayurveda's time-tested principles. Dr. Harsha has a unique ability to connect with her patients, offering personalized care plans that cater to individual needs, whether addressing hormonal imbalances, fertility concerns, or chronic skin and hair conditions. In addition to her clinical practice, Dr. Harsha is a core content creator in the field of Ayurveda, contributing extensively to educational platforms and medical literature. She is passionate about making Ayurvedic wisdom accessible to a broader audience, combining ancient knowledge with modern advancements to empower her clients on their wellness journeys. Her areas of interest include promoting women's health, managing lifestyle disorders, and addressing the root causes of skin and hair issues through natural, non-invasive therapies. Dr. Harsha’s holistic approach focuses on not just treating symptoms but addressing the underlying causes of imbalances, ensuring sustainable and long-lasting results. Her warm and empathetic nature, coupled with her deep expertise, has made her a sought-after consultant for those looking for natural, effective solutions to improve their quality of life. Whether you're seeking to enhance fertility, rejuvenate your skin and hair, or improve overall well-being, Dr. Harsha Joy offers a compassionate and knowledgeable pathway to achieving your health goals.
174 days ago
4.83

Osteophytes, or bone spurs, are bony growths that typically form around the edges of joints due to cartilage wear and tear. They are commonly associated with osteoarthritis, but they can also develop in people without joint disease, especially as a result of aging, repetitive stress, or injury. While osteophytes themselves aren’t necessarily dangerous, they can cause discomfort by narrowing the joint space, leading to stiffness, swelling, and pain, as you’re experiencing. The pain may worsen after activities like walking or standing because these activities put additional stress on the joint, causing more irritation.

Osteophytes can indeed be a sign of wear and tear (degenerative changes) in the joint, and while they are more common in older individuals, they can appear earlier in life due to factors like previous joint injuries, overuse, or even genetic predisposition. Prevention involves maintaining joint health through proper posture, regular low-impact exercise, and weight management, though some factors may still contribute regardless of prevention efforts.

In Ayurveda, joint health and the reduction of inflammation can be supported with herbs like Shallaki (Boswellia), which is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, Ashwagandha for reducing stress and inflammation, and Turmeric (especially curcumin) for its powerful anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects. Dietary changes such as increasing omega-3 fatty acids (found in fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts), and reducing foods that promote inflammation (like processed sugars and trans fats), can also help reduce joint pain and support overall health. Ginger and Epsom salt baths can be beneficial for soothing sore joints, and applying warm sesame oil or ginger-infused oil to the affected area can also provide relief.

In addition to these remedies, maintaining a healthy weight, performing gentle stretches, and avoiding activities that put too much strain on the knees may help reduce discomfort over time. If the symptoms persist or worsen, it’s important to consult your doctor to discuss further treatment options, but natural approaches can be a great complementary strategy.

13739 answered questions
68% best answers
Accepted response

0 replies

Osteophytes, commonly referred to as bone spurs, are indeed small bony projections that develop around joints, often due to wear and tear on the joint over time. While they’re often associated with osteoarthritis, they can appear even in people without significant joint disease, especially as we get older. Your concern of having osteophytes in your 40s is understandable, but it’s not uncommon, especially if there’s a history of joint strain or injuries. These bony outgrowths could be contributing to your symptoms, like stiffness and restricted movement by narrowing joint spaces or irritating surrounding tissues.

In Ayurveda, we look beyond the immediate symptoms to unearth the root causes. Osteophyte formation can be linked to an imbalance in your Vata dosha, which governs movement and can contribute to degeneration if not balanced. Addressing this imbalance through diet, lifestyle, and specific herbal support can be very effective.

Diet plays a crucial role. Embrace warming, nourishing foods like soups and stews that pacify Vata. Include spices like ginger, turmeric, and cumin, which can reduce inflammation. Avoid excessive intake of dry and cold foods that might aggravate Vata.

Trying Shallaki (Boswellia) can be beneficial as it is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. It’s worth incorporating Ashwagandha as well, which supports tissue strength and helps manage stress, thereby balancing Vata. Turmeric, with its active compound curcumin, is excellent for reducing swelling and pain, enhancing overall joint health.

Self-massage (Abhyanga) with warm sesame or Mahanarayan oil can help improve circulation and ease stiffness. Ensure regular, gentle exercises like yoga and walking, which keeps joints mobile without overstraining them. Sometimes, just a little lifestyle change and alignment with your body’s natural rhythms can make a big difference.

If you’re finding that symptoms are getting worse or do not improve with these changes, it might be time to consult with a healthcare professional who can offer more targeted interventions. Always be mindful that natural management works best as a preventive or supportive measure rather than a sole remedy for more advanced conditions!

1742 answered questions
27% best answers

0 replies
Speech bubble
FREE! Ask an Ayurvedic doctor — 24/7,
100% Anonymous

600+ certified Ayurvedic experts. No sign-up.

About our doctors

Only qualified ayurvedic doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.


Related questions

Doctors online

Dr. Prasad Pentakota
ChatGPT said: I am Dr. P. Prasad, and I’ve been in this field for 20+ years now, working kinda across the board—General Medicine, Neurology, Dermatology, Cardiology—you name it. Didn’t start out thinking I’d end up spanning that wide, but over time, each area sort of pulled me in deeper. And honestly, I like that mix. It lets me look at a patient not just through one lens but a whole system-wide view... makes more sense when treating something that won’t fit neatly in one category. I’ve handled everything from day-to-day stuff like hypertension, diabetes, or skin infections to more serious neuro and cardiac problems. Some cases are quick—diagnose, treat, done. Others take time, repeated check-ins, figuring out what’s really going on beneath those usual symptoms. And that’s where the detail matters. I’m pretty big on thorough diagnosis and patient education—because half the problem is ppl just not knowing what’s happening inside their own body. What’s changed for me over years isn’t just knowledge, it’s how much I lean on listening. If you miss what someone didn’t say, you might also miss their actual illness. And idk, after seeing it play out so many times, I do believe combining updated medical practice with basic empathy really shifts outcomes. Doesn’t have to be complicated... it just has to be consistent. I keep up with research too—new drugs, diagnostics, cross-specialty updates etc., not because it’s trendy, but cuz it’s necessary. Patients come in better read now than ever. You can’t afford to fall behind. The end goal’s the same tho—help them heal right, not just fast. Ethical practice, evidence-based, and sometimes just being there to explain what’s going on. That’s what I stick to.
5
267 reviews
Dr. Prajakta Kulkarni
I am Dr. Prajakta Kulkarni, an Ayurvedic physician and diet consultant with over 15 years of experience, specializing in holistic healing, Ayurvedic nutrition, and personalized wellness programs. My expertise lies in integrating traditional Ayurvedic principles with modern dietary science, offering effective, natural, and sustainable health solutions to patients worldwide. I lead a globally recognized online Ayurvedic diet program, which has been successfully followed by clients in 100+ cities across the world. With a 95% success rate, this program is designed to be easy to follow, result-oriented, and customized for individual health needs, addressing concerns such as weight management, metabolic disorders, digestive health, and lifestyle-related conditions. Additionally, I provide Panchakarma therapy through home visits, ensuring that patients receive authentic Kerala-based detoxification treatments from expert therapists in the comfort of their homes. My approach focuses on restoring balance, enhancing vitality, and promoting overall well-being through natural healing techniques, herbal medicine, and tailored Ayurvedic lifestyle modifications. My mission is to empower individuals with accessible, effective, and personalized Ayurvedic healthcare, helping them achieve optimal health and long-term wellness with scientifically-backed traditional treatments.
5
6 reviews
Dr. Snehal Vidhate
I am Dr. Snehal Vidhate, an Ayurvedic physician from Maharashtra, committed to promoting authentic and effective Ayurvedic healing. I completed my BAMS from YMT Ayurvedic Medical College, Kharghar, where I built a strong foundation in classical Ayurvedic science. After graduation, I was fortunate to be selected for the prestigious Certificate Course of Rashtriya Ayurveda Vidyapeeth, Delhi. Through this program, I had the unique opportunity to learn traditional and authentic Kerala Ayurveda under the mentorship of my Guru, Prof. Dr. G.G. Gangadharan, a highly respected name in the field. Currently, I am pursuing my MD in Panchakarma from the renowned Shri Dharmasthala Manjunatheshwara (SDM) Ayurveda College, Bangalore. This advanced training is enhancing my understanding of specialized Ayurvedic detoxification and rejuvenation therapies, allowing me to integrate classical Panchakarma techniques into modern clinical practice effectively. My clinical approach combines deep-rooted traditional knowledge with scientific understanding to offer personalized care for a variety of chronic and lifestyle disorders. I am passionate about utilizing Ayurveda not just for disease management but also for preventive healthcare and wellness promotion. I am dedicated to helping my patients achieve sustainable health by addressing the root cause of ailments through holistic treatments, Panchakarma therapies, lifestyle counseling, and dietetics.
5
40 reviews
Dr. Surya Bhagwati
I am a Senior Ayurveda Physician with over 28 years of clinical experience dedicated to the principles and practice of authentic Ayurvedic medicine. Throughout my journey, I have had the privilege of treating more than 100,000 patients through both in-person consultations and online platforms. My approach is deeply rooted in classical Ayurvedic diagnostics—such as Nadi Pariksha (pulse examination), Roga-Rogi Pariksha (patient and disease evaluation), and a personalized assessment of prakriti (body constitution). Over the years, I have successfully managed a wide range of health conditions across all age groups—from acute infections and digestive issues to chronic and lifestyle disorders such as arthritis, diabetes, respiratory ailments, hormonal imbalances, and autoimmune conditions. I place strong emphasis on individualized care, combining herbal formulations, Panchakarma detox therapies, and dietary and lifestyle guidance to ensure long-term healing and disease prevention. My extensive experience also includes addressing complex, chronic illnesses that require a deep understanding of both the pathology and the patient’s overall constitution. I have worked with patients who had previously struggled with little success in other systems of medicine, and have guided many toward sustainable recovery and improved quality of life. Whether treating elderly patients with degenerative disorders or young adults facing hormonal or metabolic challenges, I strive to offer care that is compassionate, comprehensive, and evidence-informed. My goal is to empower patients with Ayurvedic wisdom so they can take an active role in their healing journey. I continue to remain updated with the evolving landscape of integrative health and value the importance of patient education, ethical practice, and consistent follow-up. For me, Ayurveda is not just a profession, but a lifelong commitment to restoring balance and promoting well-being, one patient at a time.
5
282 reviews
Dr. Isha Bhardwaj
I am someone who kinda learned early that medicine isn’t just about protocols or pills—like, it’s more about people, right? I did my BAMS with proper grounding in both classical Ayurveda and also the basics of modern med, which honestly helped me see both sides better. During internship, I got to work 6 months at Civil Hospital Sonipat—very clinical, very fast paced—and the other 6 at our own Ayurvedic hospital in the college. That mix showed me how blending traditional and integrative care isn't just theory, it actually works with real patients. After that I joined Kbir Wellness, an Ayurvedic aushdhalaya setup, where I dived into Naadi Pariksha—like really deep. It’s weird how much you can tell from pulse if you just listen right?? Doing regular consultations there sharpened my sense of prakriti, vikriti and how doshas show up subtle first. I used classical Ayurvedic texts to shape treatment plans, but always kept the patient’s routine, mental space and capacity in mind. Also I was part of some health camps around Karnal and Panipat—especially in govt schools and remote areas. That part really stays with me. You get to help ppl who dont usually have access to consistent care, and you start valuing simple awareness more than anything. I kinda think prevention should be a bigger focus in Ayurveda, like we keep talking about root cause but don’t always reach people before it gets worse. My whole method is pretty much built around that—root-cause treatment, yes, but also guiding patients on how to live with their body instead of fighting symptoms all the time. I rely a lot on traditional diagnostics like Naadi, but I mix that with practical therapies they can actually follow. No point in giving hard-to-do regimens if someone’s already overwhelmed. I keep it flexible. Most of my plans include dietary changes, natural formulations, lifestyle corrections and sometimes breathwork, daily rhythms and all that. I’m not here to just “treat illness”—what I really aim for is helping someone feel like they’ve got a handle on their own health again. That shift from just surviving to kinda thriving... that’s what I look for in every case.
5
265 reviews
Dr. Shaniba P
I am an Ayurvedic doctor, someone who’s pretty much built her clinical journey around natural healing, balance and yeah—just trying to help ppl feel a bit more whole again. I work mostly with conditions that kinda stay with people... like joint pain that won’t go away, periods all over the place, kids falling sick again n again, or just the kind of stress that messes up digestion n sleep n everything in between. A lot of my practice circles around arthritis, lower back pain, PCOD-ish symptoms, antenatal care, immunity problems in kids, and those quiet mental health imbalances ppl often don't talk much about. My approach isn’t just pulling herbs off a shelf and calling it a day. I spend time with classical diagnosis—checking Prakriti, figuring out doshas, seeing how much of this is physical and how much is coming from daily routine or emotional burnout. And treatments? Usually a mix of traditional Ayurvedic meds, Panchakarma (only if needed!!), changing food habits, tweaking the daily rhythm, and honestly... just slowing down sometimes. I’m also really into helping ppl understand themselves better—like once someone gets how their body is wired, things make more sense. I talk to patients about what actually suits their dosha, what throws them off balance, and how they can stop chasing quick fixes that don’t stick. Education's a big part of it. And yes, I’ve had patients walk in for constant cold and walk out realizing it’s more about weak agni n poor gut routines than just low immunity. Every case’s diff. Some are simple. Some not. But whether it’s a young woman trying to fix her cycles without hormones or a 6-year-old catching colds every week, I try building plans that last—not just short term relief stuff. Healing takes time and needs trust from both sides. End of the day, I try to keep it rooted—classical where it matters but flexible enough to blend with the world we're livin in rn. That balance is tricky, but worth it.
5
24 reviews
Dr. Keerthana PV
I am a passionate and responsible Ayurvedic doctor, having completed my internship at the renowned VPSV Ayurveda College, Kottakkal, Kerala. My clinical journey has been shaped by the rich traditions of Kerala Ayurveda, where I gained extensive hands-on experience in diagnosing and treating patients with authentic Ayurvedic therapies. I am dedicated to delivering personalized and holistic healthcare, with a focus on preventive medicine and positive lifestyle modification. I actively counsel my patients on achieving optimal health through balanced diet, daily regimen, stress management, and natural therapies. Additionally, I am a certified Smrithi Meditation Consultant from the Kottakkal Ayurveda School of Excellence, which allows me to integrate meditation and mindfulness techniques into my treatment protocols, promoting mental well-being along with physical health. My approach is rooted in compassion, responsibility, and a commitment to empowering patients on their journey towards complete wellness.
5
95 reviews
Dr. Anirudh Deshmukh
I am Dr Anurag Sharma, done with BAMS and also PGDHCM from IMS BHU, which honestly shaped a lot of how I approach things now in clinic. Working as a physician and also as an anorectal surgeon, I’ve got around 2 to 3 years of solid experience—tho like, every day still teaches me something new. I mainly focus on anorectal care (like piles, fissure, fistula stuff), plus I work with chronic pain cases too. Pain management is something I feel really invested in—seeing someone walk in barely managing and then leave with actual relief, that hits different. I’m not really the fancy talk type, but I try to keep my patients super informed, not just hand out meds n move on. Each case needs a bit of thinking—some need Ksharasutra or minor para surgical stuff, while others are just lifestyle tweaks and herbal meds. I like mixing the Ayurved principles with modern insights when I can, coz both sides got value really. It’s like—knowing when to go gentle and when to be precise. Right now I’m working hard on getting even better with surgical skills, but also want to help people get to me before surgery's the only option. Had few complicated cases where patience n consistency paid off—no shortcuts but yeah, worth it. The whole point for me is to actually listen first, like proper listen. People talk about symptoms but also say what they feel—and that helps in understanding more than any lab report sometimes. I just want to stay grounded in my work, and keep growing while doing what I can to make someone's pain bit less every day.
0 reviews
Dr. Nisha Bisht
I am an Ayurvedic physician with over a decade of dedicated experience in both clinical and administrative roles. I began my professional journey with Jiva Ayurveda Pvt. Ltd. in Faridabad, where I spent 3 years offering telemedicine and in-clinic consultations, gaining valuable experience in patient-centered care and Ayurvedic treatment protocols. Following this, I served as a Medical Officer at Uttaranchal Ayurved College, Dehradun, for 7 years, where I was actively involved in both patient care and academic responsibilities, refining my clinical skills and deepening my understanding of traditional Ayurvedic practices. Currently, I am working as the Deputy Medical Superintendent at Shivalik Hospital, a unit of Shivalik Ayurved Institute, Dehradun. In this role, I not only manage patient consultations but also oversee hospital operations, ensuring the delivery of quality healthcare services. Throughout my career, I have remained committed to promoting authentic Ayurveda, combining classical knowledge with modern healthcare systems to provide effective, safe, and holistic treatment solutions to my patients.
5
204 reviews
Dr. Ayush Varma
Graduating with an MD in Ayurvedic Medicine from the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in 2008, he brings over 15 years of expertise in integrative healthcare. Specializing in complex chronic conditions, including autoimmune disorders, metabolic syndromes, and digestive health, he uses a patient-centered approach that focuses on root causes. Certified in Panchakarma Therapy and Rasayana (rejuvenation), he is known for combining traditional Ayurvedic practices with modern diagnostics. Actively involved in research, he has contributed to studies on Ayurveda’s role in managing diabetes, stress, and immunity. A sought-after speaker at wellness conferences, he practices at a reputable Ayurvedic wellness center, dedicated to advancing Ayurveda’s role in holistic health and preventive care.
4.95
20 reviews
Dr. Ravi Chandra Rushi
I am working right now as a Consultant Ayurvedic Ano-Rectal Surgeon at Bhrigu Maharishi Ayurvedic Hospital in Nalgonda—and yeah, that name’s quite something, but what really keeps me here is the kind of cases we get. My main focus is managing ano-rectal disorders like piles (Arsha), fistula-in-ano (Bhagandara), fissure-in-ano (Parikartika), pilonidal sinus, and rectal polyps. These are often more complex than they look at first, and they get misdiagnosed or overtreated in a lotta places. That’s where our classical tools come in—Ksharasutra therapy, Agnikarma, and a few other para-surgical techniques we follow from the Samhitas...they’ve been lifesavers honestly. My work here pushes me to keep refining surgical precision while also sticking to the Ayurvedic core. I do rely on modern diagnostics when needed, but I won’t replace the value of a well-done Nadi Pariksha or assessing dosha-vikruti in depth. Most of my patients come with pain, fear, and usually after a couple of rounds of either incomplete surgeries or just being fed painkillers n antibiotics. And I totally get that frustration. That’s why I combine surgery with a whole support plan—Ayurvedic meds, diet changes, lifestyle tweaks that actually match their prakriti. Not generic stuff off a handout. Over time, I’ve seen that when people follow the whole protocol, not just the procedure part, the recurrence drops a lot. I’m quite particular about follow-up and wound care too, ‘cause we’re dealing with delicate areas here and ignoring post-op can ruin outcomes. Oh and yeah—I care a lot about educating folks too. I talk to patients in OPD, sometimes give community talks, just to tell people they do have safer options than cutting everything out under GA! I still study Shalya Tantra like it’s a living document. I try to stay updated with whatever credible advancements are happening in Ayurvedic surgery, but I filter what’s fluff and what’s actually useful. At the end of the day, my aim is to offer respectful, outcome-based care that lets patients walk out without shame or fear. That’s really what keeps me grounded in this field.
5
6 reviews

Latest reviews

Wyatt
32 minutes ago
The response was super helpful and detailed. Offered clear steps on rebuilding gut health. Appreciate all the info on diet and lifestyle changes!
The response was super helpful and detailed. Offered clear steps on rebuilding gut health. Appreciate all the info on diet and lifestyle changes!
Aubrey
32 minutes ago
Thanks a ton! This advice felt spot on and really addressed my worries. It’s was clear and easy to understand, so shoud be helpful moving forward.
Thanks a ton! This advice felt spot on and really addressed my worries. It’s was clear and easy to understand, so shoud be helpful moving forward.
Jaxon
1 hour ago
Really appreciate the doc clearing things up, I was sure it was just acidity. Good advice on checking with a neurophysician. Thanks!
Really appreciate the doc clearing things up, I was sure it was just acidity. Good advice on checking with a neurophysician. Thanks!
Dylan
13 hours ago
Thanks for the detailed info and clear explantion! This answer really helped me figure out what might be going on, feeling much more informed now!
Thanks for the detailed info and clear explantion! This answer really helped me figure out what might be going on, feeling much more informed now!