Feeling defeated
I guess I'm posting in an effort to reach out seeking some hope and optimism, because PMR is really getting me down. I'm only two months post diagnosis, (although I've had unexplained pain for a couple of years). I was started on 65mg of prednisone, which obliterated the pain, but I believe gave me a false sense of security. I have now tapered down to 20, which is not controlling the pain and I find myself pretty much debilitated. I am waiting for a referral appointment with a rheumatologist, and hope I can find some answers. I NEED to get better! Please forgive me for sounding like I'm complaining, but I absolutely need my mobility back. I also need a place to vent to those who are not directly involved in m life. My husband and I are caregivers for our grandson, who has autism. I am grieving for my father, who recently passed, and am responsible for his estate. I am also responsible for and have enduring power of attorney for my brother in law who has dementia. I have retained so much weight from the prednisone, I feel like a walking waterbed.
Add to that, some serious concerns about my husband's health, little things like breaking the glass on my stove top, my puppy chewing my glasses, and a flat tire are nothing. I also hold an elected office, with the election coming up this fall, I need to assess whether I will be able to fulfill my responsibilities should I be the successful candidate. So much on my shoulders, no wonder they hurt. Thanks for listening. I'd love to hear your success stories, and that there's life after PMR. I truly am feeling defeated, and need some hope right about now.
Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR) Support Group.
I am convinced of these vert same answers
reduce stress healthy diet and exercise will be the best answer not ever easy.
Feeling defeated, it is truly frustrating when ur diagnosed with PMR. I woke up one morning with severe pain in my muscles and joints, after several tests nothing was found out of the ordinary until an inflammation test was performed. I started with a 40mg dose of prednisone about 18 months ago, I am currently alternating between 5 and 4 MG every other day. My goal is to completely get off prednisone. This is what has worked for me. I completely changed my diet. I eat as many organic fresh fruits and vegetables a day as I can. I eat only organic chicken and fish. No red meat. I drink at least half a gallon of water a day. I started exercising daily and started practicing tai chi. I have noticed that stress management is critical. I have had a few flare ups here and there but I am committed. Sleep at least 8 hrs a day and you will feel the difference. Good luck on your journey out of PMR.