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Real members of MyMyelomaTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

I was diagnosed with smoldering myeloma almost 3 years ago, and it has remained relatively stable. I know that one of the symptoms of multiple myeloma is bone pain of the back and hip area. Does bone pain feel physically different than just muscle pain alone in those areas? In other words, is there a discernible difference between how back bone pain feels with multiple myeloma, as compared to just strained back muscle pain? Thank you

March 16
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A MyMyelomaTeam Member

I agree with MohdSukor

March 18
A MyMyelomaTeam Member

I’ve been living with myeloma for a few years, and like many, I’ve learned to listen carefully to my body.

Bone pain. Feels deep, dull, almost like it’s inside the vertebra or hip. Sometimes worse at night or when lying down. Persistent and doesn’t go away with a simple stretch or rest

Muscle pain. Feels more like tightness or soreness across a larger area. Usually improves with movement, massage, or stretching. Can flare up after lifting or bending

“Over time, I’ve learned the difference between bone pain is more persistent and focused, muscle pain comes and goes with movement. But always check with your care team to be safe.”

Ask your doctor

“Work with your heart, trust the journey, and keep showing up for yourself.” 🤝

🩸🙂🙏
God bless us all

March 18
MyMyelomaTeam

How can you tell if back pain is bone pain versus muscle pain with myeloma?

Bone pain from myeloma often feels distinctly different from muscle pain. Members describe myeloma bone pain as:

- A very deep, dull ache rather than surface-level soreness
- Sudden, sharp pain that can occur with movements like sneezing or Show Full Answer

How can you tell if back pain is bone pain versus muscle pain with myeloma?

Bone pain from myeloma often feels distinctly different from muscle pain. Members describe myeloma bone pain as:

- A very deep, dull ache rather than surface-level soreness
- Sudden, sharp pain that can occur with movements like sneezing or coughing
- Pain that doesn't improve with typical muscle pain remedies
- Persistent pain that may worsen over time rather than gradually improving

Muscle pain typically feels more like:

- Surface-level soreness or tightness
- Pain that improves with rest, stretching, or heat
- Discomfort that gradually decreases over days to weeks
- Pain that responds to over-the-counter pain relievers

Myeloma bone pain can occur suddenly if vertebral compression fractures develop, causing immediate sharp pain in the spine. Some members thought they "pulled something" initially, but the pain persisted differently than expected muscle strain.

It's crucial to report any new or changing back pain to your doctor, especially with smoldering myeloma. They can order imaging tests or blood work to determine if bone lesions are developing. Pay attention to when the pain occurs, how long it lasts, and what makes it better or worse—this information helps your healthcare team identify the cause.

Since you're monitoring smoldering myeloma, any persistent or unusual back pain warrants evaluation to catch potential progression early.

March 16

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