Paget’s disease is a bone disease that often affects the hip. Bone formation is sped up, causing the density and shape of the bone to change. The mis-shapen bones affected become large, but also weak. It’s also common in the spine, legs and skull.
For many people, Paget’s Disease has no symptoms. Others may discover they have the disease when being tested for unrelated ailments. However, some may have symptoms related directly to the affected bones or symptoms that are complications of the bone malformation. These include bone deformities and pain due to microfractures in the bone.
Medications and pain relievers may be prescribed by your doctor to decrease the risk of fracture. Regular exercise and adequate amounts of Vitamin D will help maintain your bone strength.
If you are still experiencing arthritis pain and joint damage that's affecting your quality of life even after all other conservative measures have been taken, your doctor may suggest surgery to help relieve your pain and restore your mobility. Your doctor will determine the proper surgical treatment based on the severity of your disease. Be sure to talk to your doctor about the best treatment option for you.
Reference
1. Arthritis Foundation website, http://www.arthritis.org/disease-center.php?disease_id=19&df=whos_at_risk, accessed Oct. 2008.