What should you know about myeloma bone disease?

Bone is constantly remodelled: old tissue is removed while new tissue is built. Myeloma activity can increase breakdown and reduce effective rebuilding. This may create weakened areas, often in the spine, ribs, pelvis or long bones. Some people have pain; others have bone changes found during imaging.

Bone damage can also release calcium into the bloodstream. High calcium may cause thirst, constipation, nausea, weakness, drowsiness or confusion. A collapsed spinal bone can irritate nerves and cause pain, tingling or weakness. The pattern is assessed with symptoms, blood tests and imaging rather than pain alone.

Tell the care team about new or changing pain, reduced movement, dental problems and any fall. The plan may combine treatment for the myeloma with bone-strengthening therapy, pain relief, safe activity and imaging. Radiotherapy can sometimes be used for a specific painful bone area, while systemic or cellular treatments address the underlying disease. Do not start strenuous exercise or supplements without personalised advice.

Get urgent help for sudden severe back or neck pain, new limb weakness or numbness, trouble walking, loss of bladder or bowel control, a suspected fracture, confusion, extreme thirst or repeated vomiting. These symptoms can signal pressure on the spinal cord, a broken bone or high calcium and need prompt assessment.

Which bones are affected? Do I need imaging or a calcium test? How can I move safely? Would bone-strengthening therapy, radiotherapy or another myeloma treatment help? What dental care is needed before bone treatment?