[48F] With generalized bone pain and morning shakiness

Patient Description

A 48-year-old female has been experiencing generalized bone pain for about three months, primarily in the legs and buttocks. The pain does not change significantly with activity or rest but is relieved by laying down. Additionally, she reports feeling shaky in the mornings, particularly in the legs and hands, described as a fine tremor, which has been occurring for about six months. The shakiness is worse upon waking up. She has not experienced any recent unexplained weight loss, fever, swelling, or redness in the joints, nor any recent injuries to bones or joints. However, her left elbow joint has been hurting recently. She suspects a bladder infection due to high leukocytes and nitrates. There is no family history of similar symptoms or autoimmune diseases, no pre-existing conditions, and she is not currently taking any medications.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you have provided, here are some possible explanations for your symptoms:

  • Vitamin D Deficiency: Low levels of vitamin D can cause bone pain and muscle weakness. Vitamin D is crucial for bone health, and a deficiency can lead to conditions like osteomalacia in adults, which causes bone pain and muscle weakness.

    • Treatment: Vitamin D supplements are commonly prescribed to correct the deficiency. Sunlight exposure and dietary changes to include vitamin D-rich foods can also help.
  • Osteoporosis: This condition involves the weakening of bones, making them more prone to fractures. It can cause generalized bone pain and is more common in postmenopausal women.

    • Treatment: Medications to strengthen bones, calcium and vitamin D supplements, and lifestyle changes such as weight-bearing exercises can help manage osteoporosis.
  • Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): High leukocytes and nitrates in your urine suggest a possible urinary tract infection. UTIs can cause a strong-smelling urine and may sometimes be associated with systemic symptoms like shakiness.

    • Treatment: Antibiotics are typically prescribed to treat UTIs. Drinking plenty of water can help flush out the bacteria.
  • Fibromyalgia: This condition is characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and tenderness in localized areas. It can also cause morning stiffness and shakiness.

    • Treatment: Medications, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes such as stress management techniques can help manage fibromyalgia symptoms.
  • Electrolyte Imbalance: Shakiness, particularly in the morning, could be related to an imbalance in electrolytes such as potassium or magnesium.

    • Treatment: Blood tests can confirm an electrolyte imbalance, and treatment usually involves dietary changes or supplements to correct the imbalance.

What you can do

  1. Consult a Doctor: It is important to consult a healthcare provider for a formal diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan. They may order blood tests to check your vitamin D levels, bone density tests, or urine tests to confirm a UTI.
  2. Vitamin D Supplementation: Consider taking vitamin D supplements as recommended by your healthcare provider. Increasing your exposure to sunlight and consuming vitamin D-rich foods like fatty fish, fortified dairy products, and egg yolks can also help.
  3. Hydration: Drink plenty of water to help flush out any potential infection in your urinary tract.
  4. Healthy Diet: Ensure you are eating a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D to support bone health.
  5. Exercise: Engage in weight-bearing exercises such as walking or strength training to strengthen your bones and muscles.
  6. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms and any changes. This information will be valuable for your healthcare provider.

What you should look out for

  • Seek Immediate Medical Attention If:
    • You experience severe pain that does not improve with rest or over-the-counter pain medications.
    • You notice blood in your urine or have difficulty urinating.
    • You develop a high fever (temperature over 100.4°F) or chills.
    • Your shakiness worsens or you experience new neurological symptoms such as numbness or weakness.

Remember, while this information can be helpful, it is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult a healthcare provider for a formal diagnosis and treatment plan.

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8 mo ago

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People Also Ask


What are the common symptoms of vitamin D deficiency?

Common symptoms of vitamin D deficiency include bone pain, muscle weakness, fatigue, and mood changes. In severe cases, it can lead to conditions like osteomalacia in adults, which causes softening of the bones.


How is osteoporosis diagnosed and treated?

Osteoporosis is diagnosed through bone density tests, such as a DEXA scan, which measures bone mineral density. Treatment often includes medications to strengthen bones, calcium and vitamin D supplements, and lifestyle changes like weight-bearing exercises.


What are the typical signs of a urinary tract infection (UTI)?

Typical signs of a urinary tract infection include a strong, persistent urge to urinate, a burning sensation when urinating, cloudy or strong-smelling urine, and sometimes pelvic pain. A urine test can confirm the presence of a UTI.


What lifestyle changes can help manage fibromyalgia symptoms?

Lifestyle changes that can help manage fibromyalgia symptoms include regular physical activity, stress management techniques, maintaining a healthy sleep routine, and dietary adjustments. Medications and physical therapy may also be recommended by healthcare providers.


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