What is the first treatment tried for bone metastases?

Bone metastases are cancer deposits that have travelled from another part of the body. Treatment commonly combines care for the original cancer with measures that protect the affected bone and relieve symptoms. Bone-strengthening therapy may reduce the effects of cancer on bone. Pain medicines and other forms of cancer pain management can be adjusted alongside it.

If one area is painful or threatens function, palliative radiotherapy may target that area. A scan and clinical examination help the team consider fracture risk, spinal involvement, blood tests, kidney health and your current medicines before treatment begins.

Tell the oncology team where pain is located, whether it worsens with movement, and whether you have had weakness, tingling or a change in bladder or bowel control. Ask whether the affected bone needs protection from lifting or impact and whether a bone specialist should assess it.

Learn about [Bone-Strengthening Therapy](/treatments/supportive-and-palliative-care/bone-strengthening-therapy/), [Cancer Pain Management](/treatments/supportive-and-palliative-care/cancer-pain-management/) and [Palliative Radiotherapy](/treatments/radiation-oncology/palliative-radiotherapy/) as possible parts of a combined plan.

Seek emergency care for sudden severe back or neck pain, new leg or arm weakness, numbness, difficulty walking, or loss of bladder or bowel control. These symptoms can signal pressure around the spinal cord. Sudden intense pain after a minor movement or fall may indicate a fracture and needs urgent assessment.

Which bone is affected, and is it at risk of fracture? What treatment is aimed at the original cancer and what treatment protects the bone? Should I change activity, start bone-strengthening therapy or have radiotherapy?