Insufficiency fractures of the pelvic bones

Hi Marymac and welcome to the group.

I haven’t seen anyone discuss this recently in the group, but several of the ladies here have only just finished treatment. It’s an unfortunate consequence for some people of pelvic radiotherapy-I asked about it as I too continue to have mobility issues, but was told this wasn’t the cause for me as it didn’t show up on scans. 

Are you using anything to save weight bearing? I know ladies who were advised to use crutches for a while to help while they healed from this. For the ladies I know who had this, it did heal but it did just take time, and there wasn’t anything that could be done to “fix” it quickly.

Sarah xx

• Thanks, Sarah, I have crutches which my niece's husband who is a physiotherapist has given me. Just had them for a couple of days and getting used to them and they certainly help with getting up and down stairs and rising from a sitting or lying position. Bending over to pick anything up is just impossible at the moment as is getting anything out of the lower part of the fridge or cupboards. Re reading my original post, I don't want to come across as a moaning Minnie. I guess I'm too impatient to get back to walking and gardening. I should probably be concentrating on the fact that my oncologist said she is happy with the result of my treatment. Onwards and upwards! xx

Hi Marymac

You are really not long out of treatment, so try not to be too hard on yourself. You don’t come across as a moaning Minnie at all-treatment and it’s effects can be very difficult. I’m so glad your oncologist is happy with how your treatment has gone-that’s the main thing. Time will be the answer. 

Sarah xx

Hi Marymac

I finished chemo-radio in May 2017 and almost immediately afterwards experienced back pain from hell.

My GP thought the problem was musculo-skeletal and referred me to physio where I was given exercises to do at home.  I committed to doing the exercises and after about 4 months noticed considerable improvement although I continue to have a stiff achey back especially if I don't keep up my exercise regime. 

About 18 months ago my oncologist referred me for a CT-scan which showed I had compression fractures in 2 of my lumbar vertebrae. I'm  in my 60s and have a family histroy of osteoporosis but I was advised that the radiotherapy was probably some of the reason for these fractures and that they have contributed to the pain and stiffness in my back.  I was then referred me for a DEXA scan which showed I had osteoporosis for which I was prescribed Alendronic acid and calcium/vitamin D supplements.  Alendronic acid helps to increase bone density but I was also concerned about bone quality and asked one of my Oncologists if I could have HRT to address this whereupon I was prescribed with oestradiol patches.