Optum Perks Blog discusses the symptoms and potential treatment for Paget’s disease according to experts including Alana C. Serota, MD, CCFP, CCD, physician in the Department of Metabolic Bone Disease at HSS.

Dr. Serota explained that in Paget’s disease, new bone growth is disorganized and takes place faster than it should. “Most people don’t have symptoms when they get Paget’s,” she noted.

“The most common bones affected by Paget’s are the spine, skull, pelvis and lower legs,” she said. If there are symptoms, bone pain is the most common.

Dr. Serota explained, “if you don’t have any symptoms (and it’s not impacting your skull or spine), you may not need treatment at this time.” But needs may change because Paget’s is a chronic condition that slowly progresses over time.

Bisphosphonates are the mainstay of treatment, cited Dr. Serota.

She noted surgery could be beneficial in severe cases, “Surgery could be needed for a joint realignment or replacement or to reduce pressure on the nerves.”

Fitness and fall prevention is especially important for people with Paget’s disease. “A regular exercise program with an emphasis on balance can be overseen by a physical therapist or exercise physiologist,” added Dr. Serota.

Read the full article at Perks.optum.com.