How effective is palliative radiotherapy for bone metastases?

Radiotherapy directs energy at a selected area where cancer has spread into bone. Its palliative purpose is to calm pain and other local problems rather than remove every cancer cell in the body. Relief may build gradually, and pain can briefly flare after treatment. The treated area, bone strength, nearby organs, previous radiotherapy and overall health all influence the plan. A team may also consider pain medicines, bone-strengthening treatment, physiotherapy or an orthopaedic review. Radiotherapy does not repair every fracture or replace urgent stabilisation when a bone is at risk of breaking.

Tell the radiation team exactly where pain occurs, whether it worsens with movement, and whether you use a walking aid. Share all medicines, including painkillers and bone treatments. Ask how to position yourself, how many visits are planned, and when to expect a change in symptoms. Use prescribed pain relief as directed while waiting for radiotherapy to work, and avoid putting extra load on a fragile bone unless your team says it is safe. Read more about [Palliative Radiotherapy](/treatments/radiation-oncology/palliative-radiotherapy/).

Seek urgent medical advice for a sudden increase in bone pain, a new inability to walk or use a limb, a limb that looks shortened or misshapen, or pain after a minor movement or fall. New weakness, numbness, loss of balance, or difficulty controlling urine or bowel movements can signal pressure near the spine and needs emergency assessment. Call emergency services for collapse or severe injury.

Which bone or bones are being treated, and is there a fracture risk? When might pain relief begin? What should I do if pain flares? Do I need an orthopaedic, physiotherapy or bone-health assessment? Which activities should I limit, and how will we judge whether another treatment is needed?