• Physiotherapy
• Physical Aids

With adaptive equipment such as crutches, splints, grabbing arms, and/or modifications to the home many individuals with OI can obtain a significant degree of autonomy.

Bisphosphonates

Bisphosphonates (BP) particularly those containing nitrogen, are being increasingly administered to increase bone mass and reduce the incidence of fracture. BPs can be dosed orally (e.g. alendronate) or by intravenous injection/infusion.

BP therapy is being used increasingly for the treatment of OI. It has proven efficiency in reducing fracture rates in children, however only a trend towards decreased fracture was seen in a small randomized study in adults. While decreasing fracture rates, there is some concern that prolonged BP treatment may delay the healing of OI fractures, although this has not been conclusively demonstrated.

Pamidronates used in both USA and Canada. Some hospitals, such as most Shriners, provide it to children. Also, some children are under a study of pamidrinate. Pamidronate is usually administered as an intravenous infusion, lasting about three hours. The therapy is repeated every three to six months, and lasts for the life of the patient. Common side effects include bone pain, low calcium levels, nausea, and dizziness. According to recent results, extended periods of pamidrinate, (i.e. 6 years) can actually weaken bones, so patients are recommended to get bone densities every 6 moths-1 year, to monitor bone strength.

Internal Fixation/Rodding Surgery:

Rodding surgery involves the insertion of metal rods through the length of long bones such as those in the leg. This is done to strengthen them and to correct and prevent deformities. This surgery is usually only performed on children when OI is severe enough to prevent walking.

Pain Management:
Coping with and managing pain are essential if a person with OI is to lead a happy and productive lifestyle. The pain associated with fractures, joint deformities, and muscle contractures can be treated in a number of ways.

Heat / Ice:
Cold packs can numb an area, decrease inflammation, and provide relief, while heat packs can bring relief to stiff muscles. Neither heat nor cold should be applied to a body part for more than 20 minutes at a time. Never apply ice directly to the skin.

Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS):
This form of pain management involves using a small machine that emits an electrical pulse to block pain signals from being sent to the brain. This can provide relief for several hours. TENS machines can be purchased or rented; however, they should only be used under the supervision of a doctor or physical therapist.

Over-The-Counter Medications:
These pain relievers include aspirin, ibuprofen, and acetaminophen and are very effective at relieving pain. However, complications such as upset stomach or delayed blood clotting time can result from prolonged or excessive use. A doctor should be consulted if you plan on using these drugs continuously for more than two weeks. The doctor can also evaluate how these drugs might interact with any other medications you are currently taking.

Prescription Medications:
A variety of medications can be prescribed to combat pain including other non-steroidal inflammatory medications (NSAIDs), topical ointments, and antidepressants. Antidepressants have been shown to play a role in pain relief by elevating a person’s mood. Studies have shown that when depression improves, it can lessen a person’s perception of pain.

Nerve Block:
A nerve block is an injection of pain-relieving medication into the tissue surrounding an affected nerve. Depending on the type of medication and the amount given, nerve blocks can relieve pain anywhere from a few hours to a few months.