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← Return to Neuropathy in Hands
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Yes, even though my new GP says PMR does not affect the hands. My right hand for months at the end of last year, was like a claw. I could barely move the fingers. I was unable to use the computer mouse, which I need for work. Couldn't do much of anything. Eventually, I had to wear a carpal tunnel brace (for awhile on both hands). It started in the thumb joint and worked its way into the fingers. There was numbness and tingling. I was unable to grip or grasp anything. It did affect the left hand to some degree, but not as much. Prednisone (once diagnosed with PMR) helped this, although I still don't have the use of my middle finger, right hand completely. It still stiffens up. I exercise it with a soft rubber ball. The veins do swell up, but not always. It is a bit freaky. I never had a problem previously. All the best to you.
Replies to "Yes, even though my new GP says PMR does not affect the hands. My right hand..."
My rheumatologist said PMR does not affect the hands—I never went back to her! —My PMR started in my right hand, with swelling & pain. I lost complete use of my hand—couldn’t hold a knife to chop anything, couldn’t write, hard to get dressed, pain woke me during the night—had no strength in it. My primary doc ordered PT after my PMR diagnosis, found therapist specializing in hands & she was a wonder!! After many months regained strength & use.
Have had PMR since 2019–it had progressed from my hand, to being unable to get out of bed, unable to turn my head—miserable stuff! —Am mobile & functioning—do strength & stretch classes—on anti-inflammatory based eating plan. Currently tapering down Pred—now @ 7.5mg—desperately want off !!—like everyone!!
All the best to you & all who share this journey!!
Thank you for writing in detail. I have just been diagnosis with PMR two weeks ago, and had severe carpel tunnel as you described in my left hand when I woke in the am. And painful arthritis thumb joint pain on right side. My veins in both hands are enlarged and look strange. Even with prednisone 20 mg, I get aches in the same areas mentioned. It will go away, but not fully. Did that happen to you?
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It does effect the hands in rare cases. Mine neon one of them. I had it and still have in my right hand and wear a carpal tunnel brace at night. Painful.