URL of this page: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003180.htm
Alternative names
Aches and pains in bones; Pain - bonesDefinition
Bone pain or tenderness involves aching or other discomfort in one or more bones.Considerations
Bone pain is seen less commonly than joint pain and muscle pain. The source of bone pain may be obvious, as in a fracture following an accident, or more subtle, such as cancer that metastasizes (spreads) to the bone.
Whatever the source, bone pain should always be taken seriously. You should seek medical attention any time you experience bone pain.
Common Causes
Bone pain can be caused by many injuries or conditions:
Home Care
For unexplained bone pain, see your health care provider.Call your health care provider if
Any bone pain or tenderness should be taken very seriously. Contact your health care provider if you have any unexplained bone pain.
What to expect at your health care provider's office
Your health care provider will obtain your medical history and will perform a physical examination.
Medical history questions documenting bone pain may include the following:
The physical examination will include detailed examination of the affected body part.
Diagnostic tests that may be performed include:
Antibiotics, cortisone drugs, pain relievers, hormones, and laxatives (if constipation develops during prolonged bed rest) may be prescribed, depending on the cause of the bone pain.
Calcium, vitamin D supplements, estrogen, or other medications may be prescribed for osteoporosis.
Update Date: 7/4/2004 Updated by: Andrew L. Chen, M.D., M.S., Steadman-Hawkins Sports Medicine Foundation, Vail, CO. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.