Connect
Comment receiving replies
Yes a very strange disease this PMR & really no-one has the answer to where it comes from why some people get it & then no cure. Sure glad for prednisone because without it well yes the pain is really bad. Now no-one is an expert but I did notice the people that are very active tend to get it why well we will let the experts figure that one out. I had said that I am on 7.5 mg/day. I take 2.5 in the AM & 5 in the PM & for me it works. Yesterday I was able to play a round of golf with no problem what so ever. Next week will do some down hill skiing that is if the predicted storm arrives. Otherwise it will be the gym. Stay active
Replies to "Yes a very strange disease this PMR & really no-one has the answer to where it..."
Hi @rolandhp, From Cecil and Goldman's Textbook of Medicine, "These disorders (PMR + GCA) are propagated by antigen-driven, cell-mediated immune mechanisms that may be associated with specific genetic markers ..." They occur more often in women than men, usually Caucasians, and to persons 50 years or older. The highest rates occur in those of Northern European ancestry. My ancestry is Southern European, and my maternal aunt had PMR + GCA. Also, my mother-in-law had these disorders and her ancestry was English and French. The onset of my symptoms came after what seemed a minor but annoying ankle injury from walking backwards too much. My aunt's symptoms came on after she hurt her back moving furniture. Usually, with autoimmune disorders, it seems there's an event that triggers the immune system to go into overdrive. I think of PMR +GCA as the beasts, lurking in the shadows, waiting for an opportunity to pounce. I just started a taper of prednisone to 7.5 mg in one dose - so far, no problems, and I'm strength training three times a week, walking /stepping at least 5 days and doing two 15 minute sessions 6 days a week on a Whole Body Vibration Exercise Machine. The pain of PMR was like nothing I ever experienced. I will never forget the incredible stiffness and being unable to move in any way without pain! All the best. Stay active, but don't overdo it, as many report problems when they do. Best wishes!
Connect
I’m intrigued by the morning & evening split dosage. Have others found success with that strategy? I was having trouble sleeping and my rheumatologist recommended I take my 5 mg dose as early as I can in the morning. I’m sleeping better but willing to try anything to mitigate the persistent pain in my shoulders.
For background… I’m a super active 62 yr old and after reading this blog I’m a textbook case! I’ve had PMR for over a year and tried most of the tapering strategies you’ve all done. I’ve gotten as low as 3.5mg before needing to re-up my dosages and try tapering again. I’m now at 5mg with tolerable shoulder and hip pain… brutal cycle.