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Posted by Kelly on 10/18/2011, 8:05 am, in reply to "Recur"
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Carol,
I can't speak to your particular situation, but I can tell you what my experience has been. Back in March of this year I was diagnosed with stage 4 inflammatory breast cancer with bone mets in my hips, lower spine, and upper thighs. In addition to chemo meds I also received a monthly infusion of Zometa. I finished this round of chemo just yesterday, but will continue on the monthly Zometa infusions for the remainder of my life (I'm 39).
All in all I have to say the Zometa has helped me termendously. At the beginning of my treamtments my bone pain was so intense I was taking morphine for the pain. After just two infusions the pain became much more tolerable and now it only occassionally bothers me. I haven't taken anything stronger than a few extra strength tylenol in months now.
My onc suggested that I take Caclrate D on daily basis in addition to the monthly Zometa infusions to keep my bones strong and healthy. He also suggested light strength training (nothing over the top) to help build up my bone density.
For me, the side effects of the Zometa are so-so. I usually experience a slight increase in joint pain and a bit of nauseau...almost like flu systoms. The side effects were pretty intense for the first few treatments, but now they are tolerable.
I'm not a long term survivor yet 
but from my understanding bone mets is something that can be controlled with the proper treatments.
Please update us once you've meet with the onc.
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