RHEUMATOLOGISTS are urging people to be more aware of a common bone disorder which affects hundreds of people across the region without many of them even knowing about it.

Paget’s disease is characterised by excessive breakdown and formation of bone which results in weakened bones that can lead to pain, misshapen bones, fractures, and osteoarthritis.

But many people have no symptoms at all so they do not even realise they have the disease unless it is discovered by a chance when the patient is having an x-ray or blood test for another problem.

Dr Stephen Tuck, consultant rheumatologist at James Cook University Hospital in Middlesbrough - and vice chair of the Paget’s Association - said the disease affects one per cent to 3 per cent of over 55s.

“A large number of people have Paget’s disease but do not know about it,” he said.

"Even those who have been diagnosed by their GP think there is nothing that can be done – which is not true.

“The number of Paget’s patients we are seeing is nowhere near the number actually out there.

“We are urging anyone over 55 with painful or misshapen bones to see their GP and anyone who has been diagnosed with Paget’s disease to ask about the treatments available.”

Paget’s can be controlled using medication that can be given as tablets or through a drip.

Early treatment can eliminate pain, prevent future fractures and stop problems spreading to the body’s nervous system which could lead to leg weakness or sciatica.

Patients, carers and health professionals are invited to attend a Paget’s information day on Wednesday 14 May 2014 at the Middlehaven Conference Suite, Riverside Stadium, Middlesbrough, from 10am to 3.30pm.

To book a place call 0161-799-4646. For more information visit www.paget.org.uk