Bone is the most common site for breast cancer to spread when it becomes metastatic. Up to 70% of people with metastatic breast cancer will develop bone metastases most often affecting the spine, ribs, and pelvis. While it’s not possible to cure bone metastases, there are many treatments and lifestyle factors available that can help you maintain a good quality of life. 

In this blog, we offer insights on some ways that can help you feel your best and relieve pain, while living with metastatic breast cancer.

5 ways to manage living with bone metastases

Living well with bone metastases means finding the right balance between treatment, symptom management, emotional support, and lifestyle strategies. Here’s how you can take care of yourself:

1) Work with your care team

One of the most important things you can do after a diagnosis of bone metastases is build a strong, communicative relationship with your care team. Log your symptoms in a symptom tracker or write them down so you can easily monitor changes and bring them to your care team and explore your options. 

Below are some pain management and coping strategies they may recommend: 

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• Bone-strengthening medications can help relieve bone pain, slow the rate of bone thinning, and reduce the risk of fractures
• Targeted therapy, immunotherapy, or radiation therapy to help slow cancer cell growth
• Palliative care can help you manage your physical and emotional well-being through a multi-disciplinary approach
• Regular imaging and scans to monitor bone health
• Clinical trials may offer access to the latest therapies that are showing promise in managing metastatic breast cancer bone metastases

Tell your doctor if your pain changes or worsens, pain management plans can evolve as your needs change.

2) Protect your bones

Since bone metastases weaken the bones, protecting yourself from fractures and falls is critical. This means safeguarding your home to reduce trip hazards, ensuring you have grab bars in places like your bedroom and bathroom, being mindful of where you’re walking, and having shoes with grippy soles. Mobility aids or braces may also be helpful to keep you balanced.

3) Stay active

While you may not feel like exercising, research shows that movement can reduce stiffness, improve circulation, relieve bone pain, and lessen fatigue. Data also shows that weight-bearing exercise can help maintain bone health and bone density. Even low-impact activities like walking, stretching, and yoga can make a difference when it comes to your overall health. Always consult your healthcare provider or a physical therapist before starting any new exercise regimen.

4) Eat a balanced diet

Nutrition plays a key role in how you feel day to day, especially when you’re living with bone metastases. A well-balanced diet can help maintain your strength and support your bones. Aim to get enough calcium and vitamin D, which are essential for bone health. Incorporate dairy products, leafy greens, salmon, and sardines into your regular diet to strengthen your body. It’s also important to avoid smoking and limit alcohol, both of which can weaken bones 

If you’re struggling with appetite, weight loss, or treatment side effects like a loss of taste that make eating difficult, consider working with a registered dietitian who has experience supporting people with cancer. They can help you develop a personalized plan that meets your nutritional needs.

5) Prioritize your emotional well-being

Certain activities may be more challenging with bone metastases and adjusting to physical limitations can be difficult. You may find that activities you once loved, whether it’s hiking, dancing, or running, are no longer as easy or possible. These changes can be frustrating and may lead to feelings of grief, isolation, or even a loss of identity. It’s important to acknowledge that these emotional responses are completely valid.

Seeking emotional support during this time can make a significant difference in how you’re feeling. Below are some ways you can prioritize your mental health:

• Bring up what you’re feeling with your care team. They may refer you to a psycho-oncology specialist or therapist.
• Join a support group with others living with bone metastases or metastatic breast cancer
• Try mind-body practices to ease stress and anxiety
• Exploring expressive outlets like journaling, music, or art
• Find joy in the little things and find new hobbies

As always, if you would like to connect with an Outcomes4Me oncology nurse practitioner at no charge through the Outcomes4Me app, just use the “Ask Outcomes4Me” button.

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