Thoracic (mid-back) spine pain is a well-known symptom of myeloma. It happens because myeloma cells invade the bone marrow and break down bone faster than it can rebuild, creating areas of damage called bone lesions or osteolytic lesions.
These lesions can lead to vertebral compression fractures — where the spinal bones Show Full Answer
Thoracic (mid-back) spine pain is a well-known symptom of myeloma. It happens because myeloma cells invade the bone marrow and break down bone faster than it can rebuild, creating areas of damage called bone lesions or osteolytic lesions.
These lesions can lead to vertebral compression fractures — where the spinal bones crack or collapse. This can cause:
- Sudden, sharp pain in the back
- Pain that worsens when coughing or sneezing
- A burning or radiating sensation down the legs
- Numbness or tingling in the legs
- Muscle weakness When multiple vertebrae are affected, the spine can collapse or curve abnormally — a condition called kyphosis — which leads to chronic back pain and posture changes.
In more serious cases, fractured or collapsed vertebrae can press on the spinal cord, known as spinal cord compression. This is a medical emergency. If sudden, severe back pain occurs alongside leg numbness or weakness, seek emergency care immediately as there is a risk of permanent paralysis. Many MyMyelomaTeam members describe their back pain in different ways — some felt it as a sudden sharp pain after a sneeze, others as ongoing soreness in the spine or a burning sensation radiating into the legs.
It's really important to track when the pain occurs, how long it lasts, and what makes it better or worse, and share that detail with your healthcare team. New or worsening back pain should always be reported promptly.
July 26
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