Signs of bone metastases

Pain from bone metastases may be deep, persistent, or worse at night and can affect the back, hips, ribs, pelvis, or limbs. A weakened bone can break after a minor injury or ordinary movement. Spread to the spine may cause back pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness. Changes in bone activity can also disturb mineral balance, leading to thirst, constipation, nausea, drowsiness, or confusion. Breast, lung, and prostate cancers are among the cancers that can spread to bone, but symptoms alone cannot identify their cause.

Tell your oncology team about new bone pain, pain that limits movement, or a change in walking. Assessment may include an examination and imaging, with blood tests when mineral changes are suspected. Treatment can be directed at the cancer and at comfort or bone stability; options may include Palliative Radiotherapy, Bone-Strengthening Therapy, and Cancer Pain Management.

Seek emergency help for sudden severe back pain with leg weakness or numbness, loss of bladder or bowel control, inability to stand after a minor movement, or new confusion with marked drowsiness. These can indicate spinal cord pressure, fracture, or a significant mineral disturbance.

Ask which scan is suitable for the painful area, whether the bone is at risk of breaking, and how activity should be adjusted safely. Discuss pain relief, treatment for mineral changes, and whether bone-strengthening treatment requires dental review.