Fact 6. The Range of Treatment Options for Paget’s Disease
Once a diagnosis of Paget’s disease is confirmed, the focus shifts towards managing the condition and alleviating symptoms. The treatment strategy is individualized, based on the person’s symptoms, the bones affected, and the overall impact on their quality of life.
It’s important to note that Paget’s disease is a chronic condition. While it can be effectively managed with treatment, it typically cannot be completely cured.
One of the mainstays of treatment for Paget’s disease is medication, particularly a group of drugs known as bisphosphonates. These drugs slow down the rate of bone remodeling by inhibiting the action of the osteoclasts.
This can help alleviate bone pain, reduce the risk of complications, and even improve the quality of bone on imaging studies. There are several types of bisphosphonates available, including alendronate, risedronate, and zoledronic acid. The choice among these depends on various factors, such as the person’s overall health, kidney function, and preference.
Calcitonin is another medication used in the treatment of Paget’s disease, though it’s less commonly used than bisphosphonates. It works by inhibiting osteoclast activity, similar to bisphosphonates, but it’s generally reserved for people who can’t tolerate bisphosphonates.
Both bisphosphonates and calcitonin are typically well-tolerated, but they can have side effects, including gastrointestinal upset and flu-like symptoms. Therefore, it’s important for healthcare providers to monitor patients closely and adjust treatment as necessary.
In addition to medications, physical therapy can play an essential role in managing Paget’s disease. Physical therapy can help improve joint flexibility, enhance muscle strength, and promote mobility, thereby improving the person’s ability to perform daily activities and enhancing their overall quality of life. Regular physical activity can also help maintain bone health and reduce the risk of fractures.
In some cases, surgical intervention may be required to manage the complications of Paget’s disease. Surgery may be performed to realign deformed bones, replace damaged joints, or repair fractures. (6)
