Is it advisable to do exercise when affected by Paget's Disease? Which activities would you suggest and how intense should they be?

Yes, regular, low-impact exercise is generally recommended for patients with Paget’s Disease to maintain joint mobility, muscle strength, and bone health. While movement is essential for managing Paget’s Disease, it is vital to obtain medical clearance from your specialist to ensure that affected bones are stable and protected from fracture.

Why is physical activity important for Paget’s Disease?

Maintaining an active lifestyle helps patients with Paget’s Disease manage secondary symptoms like stiffness and muscle weakness. Exercise improves cardiovascular health, boosts mood, and helps maintain a healthy weight, which reduces the load on weight-bearing joints affected by Paget’s Disease. Movement also promotes bone health through gentle mechanical loading, provided the activity is appropriate for your specific bone involvement.

What types of exercise are safe and beneficial?

Low-impact activities that minimize stress on the skeleton are best. You should focus on exercises that promote flexibility and endurance without excessive jarring or twisting. Recommended activities include:

• Swimming and water aerobics: These are ideal because the water supports your body weight, reducing impact on the hips and spine.


• Stationary cycling: Helps maintain leg strength and range of motion with controlled, low-impact movement.


• Walking: Gentle walking on flat, even surfaces is excellent for maintaining bone density and stamina.


• Tai Chi or restorative Yoga: These practices improve balance and flexibility, which are critical for preventing falls in those with Paget’s Disease.

Which activities should be approached with caution?

Activities that involve high-impact, sudden changes in direction, or heavy lifting should be avoided, especially if you have lytic lesions or significant bone remodeling. Avoid contact sports, long-distance running, or heavy weightlifting that could place excessive stress on vulnerable areas of the skeleton. Always prioritize pacing; if you feel pain, stop immediately and rest.

How can a physical therapist assist?

A physical therapist familiar with Paget’s Disease can design a personalized rehabilitation program tailored to your specific bone involvement. They can teach you safe biomechanics to protect your joints, provide targeted strengthening exercises, and help you develop pacing strategies for "bad days" when symptoms are more pronounced.

Next steps

• Consult your rheumatologist or endocrinologist before starting any new exercise routine.


• Request a referral to a physical therapist who specializes in chronic bone conditions.


• Connect with the 3 community members on DiseaseMaps.org to share experiences and motivation.


• Start with 10–15 minutes of low-impact activity and progress slowly based on how your body responds.

Medical Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

References

• NIH Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD) - Paget's Disease of Bone.


• Orphanet: Paget disease of bone (ORPHA:680).


• Paget’s Association (UK) - Exercise and Bone Health Guidelines.


• National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS).