Bone Pain

Bone pain is a deep, dull pain coming from inside the bone, as opposed to joint or muscle pain. Causes range from minor injury to serious conditions like infection or cancer that warrant evaluation.

Table of Contents

Quick Facts

  • ICD-10: M89.9
  • Often deep: Worse with weight bearing
  • Serious causes: Fracture, infection, tumor

Common Causes

  • Injury or stress fracture
  • Osteoporosis-related compression fractures
  • Bone infection (osteomyelitis)
  • Inflammatory bone conditions (e.g., Paget's disease)
  • Leukemia and multiple myeloma
  • Bone cancer (primary or metastatic)
  • Vitamin D deficiency (osteomalacia)
  • Sickle cell disease crisis
  • Growing pains (children)

Diagnosis

  • Physical exam
  • X-ray, CT, or MRI
  • Bone scan
  • Blood tests (vitamin D, calcium, infection markers, complete blood count)
  • Biopsy if a mass or lesion is found

Treatment

Cause-specific:

  • Immobilization and pain control for fractures
  • Antibiotics for bone infection
  • Vitamin D and calcium replacement
  • Specific therapies for myeloma, cancer, or other underlying disease
  • Bisphosphonates for osteoporosis and some bone disorders

When to See a Doctor

See a doctor for:

  • Bone pain not explained by recent injury
  • Pain that worsens at night or wakes you up
  • Pain with fever, unexplained weight loss, or fatigue
  • Pain in a child that persists or affects walking

Related Symptoms

Osteoporosis

Causes bone fragility and pain

 Arthritis

Joint pain often confused with bone pain

 Vitamin D Deficiency

Can cause diffuse bone pain

 Back Pain

Spine-related bone or disc pain

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I tell bone pain from muscle pain?

Bone pain tends to be deep, gnawing, and often worse at night or with weight bearing. Muscle pain is more superficial and worse with movement of the affected muscle.

Should I worry about night pain?

Bone pain that consistently wakes you from sleep deserves evaluation — it can be a red flag for infection, fracture, or tumor.

Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with questions about a medical condition. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.

References

  • National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. Bone Health Resources.