Severe bone, joint, and muscle pain is uncommon after using bisphosphonate medications in tablet or infusion form.
To Dr. Roach: Because I have difficulty taking oral meds of any type, I have been receiving yearly Reclast injections for osteoporosis for the past few years. The injection was administered in February 2022, and over the next several months, I experienced acute joint discomfort that made it difficult for me to move. My muscles were weak, and I was having difficulty walking. I’m getting better little by little as the months pass.
Have you ever heard of this infusion producing a side effect like this? It’s almost time for another infusion, and I don’t want to repeat the experience of the previous year. I am 84 years old and quite active.
J.A.S.
Yes, I’ve heard of it. Severe bone, joint, and muscle pain is uncommon after using bisphosphonate medications in tablet or infusion form. People who have experienced this type of response should avoid using bisphosphonates in the future. This includes not just infusions such as the zoledronic acid (Reclast) you received, but also oral bisphosphonates such as alendronate (Fosamax). Other forms of therapies, including injectable treatments, are available, which you may explore with your doctor.
To Dr. Roach: Is there a difference between walking outside and walking on a treadmill?
M.S.
Walking outside engages extra muscles compared to walking on a treadmill. This is especially true on a trail or in an open country, where you must be aware of where you position your feet and employ muscles to support motions that differ from automatic foot placements (like on a treadmill or a paved road).
On the other hand, many people utilize a treadmill because they don’t want to be concerned about their feet. So what is best for you is determined by who you are and what you enjoy doing when exercising.
To Dr. Roach: I got a biopsy on a lip sore, and the results were “squamous mucosa.” Nothing needed to happen, I was informed. Shouldn’t the long-lasting bump be removed? I assumed squamous meant cancer, but I guess it hasn’t developed like that.
J.D.
The term “squamous” is derived from the same Latin root word as the word “scales” – the cells that line the skin (including the lips) are flattened, similar to fish scales. These cells are effective at minimizing fluid loss and preventing mechanical injury to surrounding tissues. The skin lining on the inside of the lip can produce mucus to lubricate the interior of the mouth. As a result, squamous mucosa is regarded as the natural lining of the interior of the lip.
All growing cells have the potential to become cancerous, and squamous cell cancer is cancer that develops from squamous cells or their ancestors. However, a squamous mucosa finding without additional confirmation shows a normal biopsy result.
With a normal biopsy, there are several explanations for the lip to develop benign sores or lumps, but I can’t guess what the cause may be in your situation.
Erin Balsa is a highly skilled and knowledgeable health journalist with a passion for educating the public on important health and wellness topics. With extensive experience in both traditional and digital media, Erin has established herself as a trusted voice in the field.