### Maintaining Bone Health with Multiple Myeloma Multiple myeloma can lead to bone pain and weak or easily broken bones. Taking care of your bones is crucial for improving your health and quality of life. Multiple myeloma is a type of blood cancer where plasma cells grow uncontrollably in the bones, causing bone damage. This condition makes osteoclasts (cells that break down old bones) more active and slows down osteoblasts (cells that build new bones), leading to weak bones that can break easily. #### Diagnosis and Treatment Your doctor will likely use imaging devices to check how myeloma cells are affecting your bones before creating a treatment plan. This plan may involve specialists and could include the following steps: 1. **Exercise and Nutrition**: Physical activity can help manage symptoms like fatigue and bone loss. Your doctor will create a suitable exercise plan for you. A balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D is also recommended. 2. **Supplements**: Your doctor may prescribe calcium and vitamin D supplements, especially if your bones are weak. However, they will first check your blood calcium levels and kidney function. 3. **Bone-Modifying Medications**: These medications, such as bisphosphonates or denosumab, can slow bone loss. They are usually taken for up to 2 years. However, high doses can lead to osteonecrosis of the jaw, so proper oral care is essential. 4. **Pain Management**: Analgesics may be prescribed to relieve bone pain. Your doctor will ask about your pain and may recommend medications other than NSAIDs to avoid kidney issues. 5. **Radiation Therapy**: This therapy can shrink cancer cells in the bone and manage pain. It is generally painless, but some side effects like nausea and fatigue may occur. 6. **Surgery**: If you have fractures in your vertebrae, surgery like kyphoplasty or vertebroplasty may be recommended. These procedures involve injecting cement into the fractured vertebrae to relieve pain and prevent further collapse. Maintaining proper oral habits and consulting your doctor before any major dental work is crucial while on bone-modifying medications. Always discuss any new treatments or supplements with your doctor to ensure they are safe for you.