Multiple Myeloma Bone Pain

If you have bone pain associated with multiple myeloma, it's important to know that you're not alone. This symptom is a common problem in people with this condition. Doctors can relieve or reduce bone pain in several ways, including pain medication, radiation, and nerve blocks. In addition, your healthcare team may suggest massage therapy, acupuncture, acupressure, or other alternative methods.

An Overview of Bone Pain and Multiple Myeloma

Bone pain is a common problem for people with multiple myeloma. Your doctor or a specialist in pain control can relieve or reduce bone pain in several ways, which include:
 
  • Pain medicine -- Medicines often can relieve multiple myeloma pain. Although these medicines can make people drowsy and constipated, resting and taking laxatives can help.
 
  • Radiation -- High-energy rays can help relieve bone pain associated with multiple myeloma by shrinking the tumor. 
 
  • Nerve block -- Your doctor may inject alcohol into the area around certain nerves near the bone to block the pain. This is called a nerve block.
 

Alternative Treatments for Multiple Myeloma Bone Pain

Your healthcare team may suggest alternative treatments to relieve or reduce bone pain, such as massage, acupuncture, or acupressure.
 You may also learn to relieve the pain through relaxation techniques, such as listening to slow music or breathing slowly and comfortably.

(Click Alternative Multiple Myeloma Treatment for more information about multiple myeloma bone pain.)
Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
 
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