Paget’s disease of bone affects mobility in older adults primarily by causing bones to become abnormally large, weak, and deformed, which leads to pain, fractures, joint problems, and neurological complications that impair movement. The disease disrupts the normal cycle of bone remodeling, where old bone is broken down and new bone is formed. In Paget’s disease, this process becomes unbalanced, resulting in excessive bone breakdown followed by disorganized and excessive new bone formation. This new bone is larger but structurally weaker and more prone to deformities and fractures.
Because the bones become misshapen and fragile, older adults with Paget’s disease often experience chronic bone pain, stiffness, and deformities such as bowed legs or an enlarged skull. These changes can limit the range of motion and cause difficulty with walking, standing, and other daily activities. The weakened bones are more susceptible to fractures even with minor falls or injuries, which further reduces mobility and independence.
Joint involvement is common, as the abnormal bone growth can affect the joints near the affected bones, leading to osteoarthritis. This joint pain and stiffness compound the mobility problems. For example, if the pelvis or femur is affected, walking becomes painful and difficult. If the spine is involved, it can cause nerve compression leading to numbness, weakness, or even paralysis in severe cases, further impairing mobility.
Balance problems are also frequent in Paget’s disease. The deformities in weight-bearing bones and joints can alter posture and gait, increasing the risk of falls. Additionally, neurological complications from bone overgrowth pressing on nerves can cause muscle weakness and coordination issues.
Treatment aims to control symptoms and improve mobility by using medications like bisphosphonates to slow abnormal bone remodeling, pain management strategies, physical therapy to maintain joint function and muscle strength, and sometimes surgery to correct deformities or stabilize fractures. Maintaining a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, along with regular low-impact exercise, can help support bone health and mobility.
In summary, Paget’s disease affects mobility in older adults through a combination of bone pain, deformities, fractures, joint problems, and neurological complications. These factors together reduce physical function, increase fall risk, and impair the ability to perform everyday movements, making mobility a significant challenge for those living with the disease.