I need some answers to my bone pain

Diane ~  I also had horrible bone pain during and for several months after chemo (Taxotere & Cytoxin), and the thing that has made the biggest difference for me is exercise, especially walking.  I walk for an hour or more as many days a week as I can, and it's had a positive affect not only on the bone pain in my legs, but other aspects of both physical and emotional healing, including significantly lower blood pressure and weight loss.

I don't know about Cymbalta, but if you're already on Tamoxifen, the resulting lack of estrogen may be a contributor to your problem.

Another thing I've recently tried for my stiff fingers (worse in the a.m.) and a painful elbow is a topical creme with MSM and Glucosamine.  The one I have is by Natrol, but I think there are several with similar ingredients.

Oh, and back when my leg pain was the absolute worst and kept me from falling asleep and/or awakened me at night, I got some relief by elevating my legs on a pillow. 

Hope some of these suggestions help.  Hang in there; it does get better over time.   Deanna

I did AC / Taxol and had horrible bone pain after chemo. I was 30 yrs old but felt 70. It scared me. But the only thing that helped me was to walk. Everyday.Walk.

Start out slow, 10 or 15 minutes. Then add more time and distance.

Hi Girls,

Am in Australia and seeing the Dr tomorrow regarding Tamoxifen.  I hate it!  I have been on it since March, and was taken off it for two months break.  Bone and joint pain has been very difficult and effecting my sanity!!.  I thought you would like to refer to this link below that has some suggestions.  A naturopath described the sanity part well, as the estrogen receptors that are being blocked in the brain are also blocking the seratonin to the brain.  Have been unable to exercise and feel as if I went from 38 in 2008 to aged 98 in 2009!  This is unfortunate as they gave me the fat chemo instead of the skinny chemo!!!

I trust every day is getting better.

Fiona

this is from the website...

http://www.breastcancer.org/tips/pain/common_prob/bone_joint.jsp Non-metastatic bone pain

Some people have long-term, persistent discomfort in the long part of the bone, in the muscles surrounding the bone, and in joints. Breast implants also may put pressure on the sensitive surface around the bones of the rib cage.

Chemotherapy produces pain in hips, legs, and arms. These discomforts happen during the time you're receiving chemotherapy and may worsen with each session. The pain may persist for a long time-months or even a year-after treatment ends. The good news is that, sooner or later, it WILL disappear.

Such pain is linked to nerves, muscles, joints, and ligaments. It can respond to antiseizure medications and tricyclic antidepressants, as well as NSAIDs (pronounced EN-seds) and opioids.

Occasionally, the pain may persist. If this happens to you, ask to speak to a pain specialist.

Tamoxifen treatment may produce arthritis-like aches and stiffness. NSAIDs help with this pain. If you don't get adequate relief, your doctor might prescribe opioids.

Non-metastatic bone and joint pains also respond to heat, massage, and swimming. Yoga helps stretch and strengthen muscles, which reduces pain in the supporting muscles and soft tissues.