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@fam8284. I can relate to the pain you’re experiencing. I’m 79 and took prednisone for 9 months before tapering. There will definitely be pain post prednisone. And sometimes it feels like it’s getting worse. I used the measurement of ‘is this as bad as what I felt at the beginning of having PMR?’ Usually the answer was no, but there were times I wanted to schedule an appt to see if I needed to go back on prednisone, then the pain would lessen some. I alternated taking ibuprofen and acetaminophen every few days, and gradually I was taking them less often. I hope you’re not flaring but if your inflammation markers are high, it is what it is. You likely won’t be back on for long and your second taper will likely be more successful. Be patient, there is an end in sight. Be in good health.
Replies to "@fam8284. I can relate to the pain you’re experiencing. I’m 79 and took prednisone for 9..."
Thanks so much for explaining your experience. It helps to know what to expect. For me when the stiffness and aches first began it was tolerable. As time went on it got worse. So at the peak of the PMR it was really bad and limiting my mobility. It took months for my primary to send me to a Rheumatologist. So if I compare my pain level now it’s more like the beginning of what I experienced before I even knew it was PMR. So I’ll see what the lab results are and hoping for the best. Thanks again so much for sharing it is helpful and encouraging.
Hi, I was told by someone in the support group that I shouldn't take Advil when taking Prednisone. I read that you mentioned taking ibuprofen. I didn't get an explanation as to what happens if you take Advil. Anyone who reads this comment, can you please tell us why we should not take ibuprofen, Advil, etc for pain relief. Thanks!
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"I used the measurement of ‘is this as bad as what I felt at the beginning of having PMR?’ Usually the answer was no, but there were times I wanted to schedule an appt to see if I needed to go back on prednisone, then the pain would lessen some."
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I used to do this too except I used it for deciding what dose of prednisone I should take.
There was also a "survivability" aspect to whatever was the latest onset of pain. It was somewhat reassuring to me when I could say "it has hurt worse before and I survived."
My whole experience with a variety of autoimmune difficulties has built up my tolerance level for pain. Little stuff isn't so concerning anymore. I don't expect to be pain free ever again. Presently, it is probably "as good as it gets" and I'm off prednisone.