Is anyone else diagnosed with PMR experiencing weakness in their legs?
I have never noticed a problem with my legs prior to my diagnosis. Twice, I have kneeled down in public places - once in WAlmart - and was unable to get up. Scary!! This has never happened to me in the past. Is it the PMR, or is it prednisone, or is it that I have been misdiagnosed? My PCP is not suggesting a rheumatologist so far, and that alone concerns me.
Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR) Support Group.
I was also frustrated because my PCP did not mention referral to a rheumatologist when I was having unbearable pain and stiffness with PMR. I solved the problem simply by making an appointment myself with a nearby rheumatologist and soon began a treatment program that brought immediate relief. I hope you are feeling better soon.
Hi @ncgal, I'm wondering if the leg cramps might also be due to dehydration from not drinking enough water?
You might be right, John. I know I don't drink as much as I should. I usually add a little cranberry juice or lemonade as I don't like plain water.
Hello! I’m so sorry you are experiencing the leg cramping. I too have had times where one of my legs have cramped up or if I move my leg in a certain way it feels like it is close to going into a full cramp. This doesn’t happen often but when it does it’s very painful. I’ve had PMR for 3 months and never associated that with the cramping. I wish you well and that the cramping will subside. Take care!
Hi, John,
Just wanted to tell you that the link of Nov 6 for communicating with your doctor was very helpful to me. I watched it and got the tools I needed to ask my PCP for a referral to a Rheumatologist. Thank you very much. Now, I just hope I have asked for the right Rheumatologist!
Hi @aspine, I'm happy to hear the Patient Revolution website information was helpful! Can you let me know how your appointment with the rheumatolagist goes?
Yes, I most certainly will. Especially since I'm not sure what I'm looking for in a good Rheumatologist. You might have some good insight on that, I would think!
My personal criteria for picking a rheumatologist might not guarantee a good choice 🙂 For me, I want a doctor that is a good listener as well as a good communicator. I also would want to know how much experience they have. Here are some tips that may be more helpful in choosing one.
8 Tips for Choosing a Rheumatologist: https://www.healthgrades.com/right-care/rheumatoid-arthritis/8-tips-for-choosing-a-rheumatologist
Since my diagnosis in early 2020 I have always had weakness in my legs. During Prednisone but it eased when I was in remission for 6 months and now again while I am out of remission but not on Prednisone as the pain is tolerable. I have used a stick at times and had a fall. I go dog walking every day and this has helped. I also have a regular cramp in my left leg.
I don’t live in the US but in a small country with more limited medical services unless you can pay so don’t have access to the same resources. This type of forum is very helpful thank you.
Welcome @anniekirby, I'm happy to hear your PMR is in remission. Mine is also in remission and I try to do daily exercises to help build my leg strength as well as work on my balance. I do have some Nordic walking sticks to use if I go on a long walk but don't use them for everyday walking. They really help with my balance. Walking is really good too. Here are some exercises I found that might be helpful if you haven't already tried them.
Balance Exercises for Seniors: 11 Moves to Try - Healthline: https://www.healthline.com/health/exercise-fitness/balance-exercises-for-seniors
Do you do other exercises to help with your balance and leg strength?