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How to address PMR pain while decreasing prednisone

Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR) | Last Active: Nov 6, 2023 | Replies (747)
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@lbminichillo

I was diagnosed with PMR in 2000. I am still experiencing problems, although I am down to 4 mg prednisone. Also taking methotrexate and dapsome. Had to stop plaquenil due to eye damage. After all these years on prednisone, I also have discoid lupus. I now have osteoporosis, even with prolia, and have experienced many fractures. So here is my question: Has anyone else had PMR that long (21 years)? The literature says it will often resolve in 3 - 5 years.

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Replies to "I was diagnosed with PMR in 2000. I am still experiencing problems, although I am down..."
John, Volunteer Mentor | @johnbishop | Apr 7, 2021

Hello @lbminichillo, Welcome to Mayo Clinic Connect. I think the reference to PMR resolving itself in 3 to 5 years is a guestimate and they really do not know and can't tell you. Each of us are different in how we react to the condition and the different treatments. I've had 2 occurrences of PMR spaced 6 years apart with the first one lasting 3-1/2 years and the second one lasting 1-1/2 years. I was started on 20 mg prednisone both times and the tapering off was tricky. I learned to do it in small amounts which I'm guessing is what you have tried. My rheumatologist was always asking me if I had any pain around my temples or scalp because Giant Cell Arteritis (GCA) is often a condition associated with PMR.

"PMR may last from one to five years; however, it varies from person to person. Approximately 15 percent of people with PMR develop a potentially dangerous condition called giant cell arteritis." -- Polymyalgia Rheumatica - Arthritis Foundation: https://www.arthritis.org/diseases/polymyalgia-rheumatica

There are other conditions that mimic PMR which may be one of the reasons why PMR can be difficult to diagnose.
- Conditions mimicking polymyalgia rheumatica: https://www.reumatologiaclinica.org/en-conditions-mimicking-polymyalgia-rheumatica-articulo-S217357431170034X

Has your rheumatologist suggested any lifestyle changes like foods to eat or avoid and exercises to help?

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