So sorry to hear your father is going through this — back and side pain is one of the most common and difficult challenges with myeloma. There are several approaches that doctors use to help manage it. ⚠️ Important first: Do NOT give him NSAIDs like ibuprofen, aspirin, or Naproxen without doctor approval. These can Show Full Answer
So sorry to hear your father is going through this — back and side pain is one of the most common and difficult challenges with myeloma. There are several approaches that doctors use to help manage it. ⚠️ Important first: Do NOT give him NSAIDs like ibuprofen, aspirin, or Naproxen without doctor approval. These can seriously damage the kidneys, which are already vulnerable with myeloma. Medical options his doctor may consider:
- Tylenol (acetaminophen) for mild-to-moderate pain
- Prescription opioids/narcotics for severe pain (though these can cause constipation)
- Anticonvulsants or antidepressants if nerve pain is involved
- Corticosteroids to reduce inflammation
- Bone-building medications like bisphosphonates
- Radiation therapy if a tumor is pressing on nerves
- Kyphoplasty (a minimally invasive procedure) for spinal fractures Non-medication options that may help:
- Topical creams with lidocaine or capsaicin
- Heating pads or ice packs (use heating pads carefully to avoid burns)
- Physical therapy — one MyMyelomaTeam member said, *"I cannot say enough good about PT. It gave me what I needed to walk again"*
- Acupuncture, gentle yoga, or meditation
- Adjusting his sleeping position or bed angle The most important step right now is contacting his oncology team as soon as possible to describe the severity of his pain. A multidisciplinary team — including pain management specialists, oncologists, and palliative care — can work together to find the right combination of treatments for him. He doesn't have to just endure this. 💙
August 22
I started out my journey that way could hardly walk. My oncologist did radiation therapy but the RVD protocol worked and unless your doctor recommends radiation I would stay away from it as I know it did more damage than good. The RVD protocol I believe will take away the intense pain. They also put me on morphine. Today I am off all meds and pain killers with the exception of advil once in a while when I’m hurting. Believe dexamethazone is a steroid and that really made me feel better. Hope the pain subsides soon. Blessings!
August 23
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