After "recovering" from PMR, still decreased strength/stamina

Posted by garibaldo88 @garibaldo88, May 6 11:06am

I had a relatively brief bout of PMR, all pain gone and inflammation markers back to normal after only a few months of prednisone and sulfasalazine. (Yes, I DO know how fortunate I am!)
This recovery was almost 2 yrs ago, but I have not been able to regain my pre-PMR level of fitness despite exercising just and hard and frequently as before. I'm a very fit 65 yr old male, and I wouldn't really care about not being being able to regain my pre-PMR strength and stamina, but I row competitively so the drop-off is quite noticeable when I'm racing (and LOSING!) against other serious athletes.
Anybody else have a similar experience, or advice on how to train in my post-PMR world?

Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR) Support Group.

It sounds like you are on the right track. It's always worth asking because most people don't.
I have added anti-inflammatory foods and I think that helps some. If my body isn't working so hard to heal I do have more energy.

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@pdxmac

It sounds like you are on the right track. It's always worth asking because most people don't.
I have added anti-inflammatory foods and I think that helps some. If my body isn't working so hard to heal I do have more energy.

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Thx, we are both on the same page.

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Since I’ve been diagnosed I am always tired and no energy. Is this normal?

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Would someone please explain to me about low cortisol, prednisone reduction, and ENERGY levels……
My prednisone is down to 5.5, less PMR symptoms, yet, less stamina.
Is this why I feel wiped out from activities?
Thx

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@pdxmac

Have you tried changing your diet? It's not a magic bullet, but it does help

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What changes for diet??

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Following a Mediterranean diet rich in vegetables, protein, anti-inflammatories like tart cherry juice, berries. And also staying away from sugar, alcohol, processed foods.
I already did most of these things pre-PMR, but really cleaned up my act in the last couple of months and I believe it has made a big difference. I'm even doing a light version of resistance training these days again. It feels so good!

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