How is persistent bone pain treated?

Deep or persistent bone pain can result from an injury, infection, osteoporosis, inflammation or a tumour. Some cancers that can affect bone include chondrosarcoma, Ewing sarcoma, multiple myeloma and cancer that has spread from another organ. Pain alone cannot identify which cause is present.

Assessment may include an examination, blood tests and imaging such as an X-ray, CT, MRI or bone scan. If a suspicious area is found, a biopsy may be needed. Treatment can include prescribed pain medicines, physiotherapy, treatment for infection or osteoporosis, cancer-directed therapy and bone-strengthening therapy when appropriate.

Record where the pain is, whether it worsens with movement or at night, and any swelling, weakness or weight change. Avoid activities that sharply increase pain until assessed, while keeping gentle movement if it is comfortable. Use pain medicines only as directed, especially if you have kidney, stomach, liver or heart problems or take blood thinners.

Arrange medical review for pain that persists, worsens at night, follows minor trauma or limits walking and daily activity. Seek emergency help for sudden severe pain after a small movement, inability to bear weight, new limb weakness or numbness, loss of bladder or bowel control, or fever with a hot, swollen painful area.

Ask which causes are being considered, what tests are appropriate, whether the bone is at risk of fracture, how to manage pain safely, and whether you need specialist care or bone-strengthening treatment.