Surgery

Joint replacements are the most common surgeries doctors use to treat joint complications from Paget's disease such as osteoarthritis of the hip or knee joints. If a joint has been damaged by this disease and is causing pain, your doctor may recommend a joint replacement (depending on the affected joint).

Osteotomy removes a wedge of bone to help reshape the remaining bone. An osteotomy for the hip or knee is another bone surgery that may help delay a joint replacement. But it is usually only a good choice for a younger person.

For more information on joint replacement surgery, see:

• Hip replacement surgery.
• Knee replacement surgery.

Sometimes, doctors may do surgery to take pressure off a nerve (such as a nerve pinched by extra bone forming in the spine) or to correct deformed bone (such as bowed legs).

If you have Paget's disease and are going to have bone or joint surgery, you may need medicine for a period of time before surgery to slow the breakdown of bone tissue and decrease the risk of bleeding during surgery.

Other Treatment

Other treatment for Paget's disease includes:

• Splints and braces. These help support bones and joints and may be used to help prevent weakened bone from breaking. If your doctor prescribes a splint or brace, be sure it fits properly. Splints or braces that do not fit properly can cause skin irritation.
• Canes and walkers. These may help you walk with less risk of falling. Ask for training in how to use these devices properly.
  • Using a cane
  • Using a walker
• Physical therapy. This can help strengthen muscles, increase endurance, and improve balance.
• Home health nursing. You may have home health nursing if you are taking a medicine that must be given through a vein (intravenous, or IV). Home health nurses can also help make your home safe to prevent you from falling.
• Alternative therapies. Acupuncture and relaxation techniques (such as guided imagery and biofeedback) may help reduce pain in some people.