Episodes of severe pain can occur in cases of bone tissue death due to lack of oxygen supply, a condition known as avascular necrosis or osteonecrosis. Pain also can be caused by other factors, including swollen organs, and as a result of bowel obstruction and gastrointestinal bleeding.
ERT and SRT
In children and young adults, enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) or substrate replacement therapy (SRT) often resolve pain. However, in advanced stages of Gaucher disease, and in older patients, the existence of arthritis and other neuromuscular conditions complicates the treatment. At that stage, both ERT and SRT may be inefficient in reducing pain, since they cannot reverse the damage that has already occurred.
Opioids like oxycodone may be considered for cases of severe pain. Doctors carefully assess the benefits and risks of opioids before prescribing them as they are highly addictive.
Pain symptoms in Gaucher disease also can be managed in other ways in addition to medication.
Physiotherapy and occupation therapy under the guidance of specialists can help improve mobility and prevent frozen joints. A physiotherapist can design exercise routines that can improve the ranges of motion in the arms and legs. Occupational therapists can train patients in exercises that make day-to-day activities simpler, and promote independence.
Massage therapy can help with the movement of muscles, and thereby reduce pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate different muscles in the body and reduce pain.
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