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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.
July 19
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MyMyelomaTeam

Living with lytic lesions and a serious fracture like a broken femur is genuinely scary, and it makes complete sense to feel anxious about what comes next. You're not alone in this — bone pain and fractures are among the most commonly discussed topics in the myeloma community.

The fear of bones collapsing is real, but Show Full Answer

Living with lytic lesions and a serious fracture like a broken femur is genuinely scary, and it makes complete sense to feel anxious about what comes next. You're not alone in this — bone pain and fractures are among the most commonly discussed topics in the myeloma community.

The fear of bones collapsing is real, but there are several ways doctors can help protect and strengthen bones. Here's what's commonly used:

- Bone-strengthening medications like bisphosphonates or denosumab, which help prevent further bone damage
- Radiation therapy to target specific lesions, shrink tumors, and strengthen weakened areas
- Kyphoplasty (for spinal fractures) — a minimally invasive procedure using bone cement to stabilize collapsed vertebrae
- Back braces to reduce pressure and stabilize the spine
- Pain medications, including prescription options, to help manage day-to-day discomfort One MyMyelomaTeam member shared that lesions pressing on a nerve caused severe pain, but after 10 rounds of radiation, it worked really well for them.

The most important step is talking openly with your care team about your specific lesions and fracture history so they can tailor a bone protection plan just for you. You deserve to feel as safe and supported as possible. 💙

July 19
A MyMyelomaTeam Member

Thank you Paula. I will talk to my oncologist. I like the idea of the natural route

July 21
A MyMyelomaTeam Member

Deborah,
I was first offered Zometa in 2019 when I went to a Rheumatologist for hip pain. The pain was so bad, my leg did not work to drive. I did lots of research and read that they don’t actually build bones, they just stop the process, which causes bone death, which you experienced. I have heart and kidney issues which also made me decide to go the natural route. I started taking Calcium & Magnesium (MRM Bone Maximizer III-1400 mg) with extra D3, K2, Vitamins C, A and E complex. They all work together to build bones. MM constantly works to tear them down, so taking them everyday is important. You can take 1/2 of the mg’s in the morning and half at lunchtime. I hope this helps.🌷
Paula🌹

July 20
A MyMyelomaTeam Member

Unfortunately, I cannot take any bone strengthening medication. I previously took Zometa and developed osteonecrosis of the jaw. A rare side effect of Zometa.

July 20
A MyMyelomaTeam Member

I had all of those discussed above, except for Kyphoplasty. The doctors felt my vertebrae were is such bad shape, that the risk of doing more damage was too high.

July 19

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