What to expect from radiotherapy for multiple myeloma

Your team may consider local radiotherapy when a myeloma area causes pain, threatens the strength of a bone or presses on nearby tissue. Scans help the radiation oncologist define the target and protect surrounding organs. You lie in a supported position while the machine delivers treatment from outside the body. The beams are not felt, and this treatment does not make you radioactive.

Pain may ease gradually rather than immediately. Fatigue and skin changes can occur if the skin is in the field. Treatment near the spine, pelvis, chest or another organ can cause site-specific effects. Radiotherapy treats a selected area, so it is coordinated with medicines used for myeloma elsewhere in the body.

Tell both oncology teams about all medicines, supplements, previous radiotherapy, kidney concerns and any implanted device. Ask how to move safely if a bone is fragile; avoid lifting or activities that could strain the affected area until cleared. Take prescribed pain relief as directed and keep a record of changes. Protect treated skin from friction and sun, drink and eat as tolerated, and plan rest around appointments. Do not change myeloma treatment without the prescribing team.

Contact your team urgently for sudden or worsening bone pain, a new inability to stand or walk, numbness, weakness, loss of bladder or bowel control, fever, repeated vomiting or inability to drink. Seek emergency care for severe back pain with new leg weakness, breathing difficulty, confusion or a suspected fracture. These symptoms need assessment regardless of whether radiotherapy has already started.

What problem is this treatment intended to relieve? Is the bone at risk of fracture? How should I move and exercise? When might pain change? How will radiotherapy fit with my myeloma medicines, and which number should I call for new weakness or pain?