Paget's Disease of Bone Overview
Understand Paget's disease of bone, including its causes, symptoms, impact on health, diagnosis and treatment options. Learn how this condition affects bone structure and ways to manage it effectively.
Written by Dr. J T Hema Pratima
Reviewed by Dr. Dhankecha Mayank Dineshbhai MBBS
Last updated on 2nd Sep, 2025
Introduction
If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with Paget’s disease of bone, you might have questions about what it means and how it affects the body. Don’t worry, we’re here to help you understand this condition in simple terms.
What is Paget’s Disease of Bone?
Paget’s disease of bone is a chronic disorder that disrupts the normal process of bone renewal. Normally, our bones constantly break down and rebuild to stay strong. However, in Paget’s disease, this process becomes abnormal, leading to bones that are larger, weaker, and more prone to fractures or deformities.
This condition usually affects one or a few bones (rather than the entire skeleton) and is more common in older adults, particularly those over 50.
Consult an Orthopaedic Surgeon for the best advice
What Causes Paget’s Disease?
The exact cause of Paget’s disease is still unclear, but experts believe a combination of genetic factors and environmental triggers (like viral infections) may play a role. Some people inherit a tendency to develop the condition, while others may develop it without any family history.
Common Symptoms to Watch For
Many people with Paget’s disease don’t experience symptoms at first. When symptoms do appear, they may include:
Bone pain (often dull and persistent)
Joint stiffness or swelling (especially near affected bones)
Bone deformities (such as bowed legs or an enlarged skull)
Fractures (bones break more easily)
Nerve compression (if enlarged bones press on nerves, causing tingling or weakness)
Hearing loss (if the skull bones are affected)
Since symptoms can be mild or mistaken for arthritis, many people discover they have Paget’s disease only after an X-ray or blood test for another reason.
How Does Paget’s Disease Affect Health?
If left untreated, Paget’s disease can lead to complications such as:
Osteoarthritis (due to abnormal bone growth near joints)
Fractures and deformities (weakened bones break more easily)
Heart problems (in rare cases, increased blood flow to affected bones strains the heart)
Nerve damage (if bones compress nerves)
The good news? With proper treatment, most people with Paget’s disease lead active, healthy lives.
Diagnosis: How is Paget’s Disease Detected?
If your doctor suspects Paget’s disease, they may recommend:
Blood tests (to check for elevated alkaline phosphatase, a marker of bone activity)
X-rays (to see abnormal bone structure)
Bone scans (to identify affected areas)
Early diagnosis helps prevent complications, so don’t hesitate to discuss any bone or joint concerns with your doctor.
Treatment and Management Options
While there’s no cure for Paget’s disease, treatments can help control symptoms and prevent complications. Common approaches include:
1. Medications
Bisphosphonates (drugs that slow bone breakdown and reduce pain)
Pain relievers (like acetaminophen or NSAIDs for discomfort)
2. Lifestyle Adjustments
Exercise regularly (weight-bearing activities like walking help strengthen bones)
Eat a bone-healthy diet (rich in calcium and vitamin D)
Avoid falls (use handrails, wear non-slip shoes, and keep your home well-lit)
3. Surgery (in rare cases)
For severe fractures, deformities, or nerve compression
When to See a Doctor
If you experience persistent bone pain, unexplained fractures, or notice changes in bone shape, consult a doctor. Early intervention makes a big difference!
Final Thoughts
Paget’s disease of bone may sound intimidating, but with the right care, most people manage it well. If you have concerns about your bone health, don’t wait; talk to a doctor today. Your bones support you every day; it’s time to return the favor!
Consult an Orthopaedic Surgeon for the best advice
Consult an Orthopaedic Surgeon for the best advice
Dr Vikas P Birla
Orthopedics-Sports Medicine
13 Years • MBBS, DNB, MNAMS, Fellowship in Shoulder and Sports Injury
Delhi
Apollo Hospitals Indraprastha, Delhi
(25+ Patients)
Dr. Preetham Raj Chandran
Orthopaedician
10 Years • MBBS, MS (Orthopedics), FIASM, FIJR
Bangalore
Apollo Clinic Bellandur, Bangalore
Dr. Preetham Raj Chandran
Orthopaedician
10 Years • MBBS, MS(ORTHO)FIJR(SIAA),FIRJR,FIASM
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, Sarjapur Road, Bengaluru
Dr. Venu Gopal B
Orthopaedician
22 Years • mbbs,d.ortho,dnb
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, JP nagar, Bengaluru
Dr. Kiran Shankar
Orthopaedician
6 Years • MBBS, MS (ORTHOPAEDIC SURGEON)
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, Sarjapur Road, Bengaluru
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