How do you manage bone and joint pain during breast cancer treatment?

Managing bone and joint pain during treatment can be incredibly challenging, and reaching out to your oncology team is definitely the right step. Many people in this community have found relief through a combination of medical interventions, gentle movement when possible, heat therapy, and adaptive tools that make daily activities easier - hopefully others will share what specific approaches have worked best for them.

Hi Arminda! I was extremely active before my diagnosis so when I was put on Kisqali, the transition to joint pain, creakiness, cracking joints etc. was really tough for me to get used to. I know it seems almost counterintuitive but movement really helps. The more I stayed sedentary (sitting on a couch or staying in one spot at work), the worse my joint issues were. Try to move every hour while awake...even if it means just a stroll around your living room. I couldn't run like I used to so I started walking every day -either on a treadmill or outdoors. It helped.

I’m also on Kisqali, Arimidex and Zometa infusions quarterly. I’m walking 3,000 to 5,000 steps daily but really love my deep water swimming class where we wear an exercise belt. The water supports my aching joints and offers great resistance as I work on movement.

I take 90 mg of Cymbalta in the morning. I originally had it in all my bones except below my elbows and knees and 1 rib. I basically had no bone pain. My hips hurt after walking short distances. I go to a gym and ride the stationary bike and my hips won't hurt. You may have to change the way you get around. You can do this!