PMR: Pain moving around your body

Thanks for that John. Hmm it doesn’t really sound like what’s going on. My Doctor is very sure that I have PMR and research certainly supports it. There may be a couple of things going that need exploring. I’ll be catching up with the Doc soon so will have a conversation about that.

Really appreciate your response - very useful!!!

Cheers

I was diagnosed with PMR back in Jan. 2022 and put on 20mg Prednisone immediately and the pain also subsided immediately (like overnight). I had been completely debilitated for the previous 5 months. Basically could do nothing, even sit on toilet or reach around. Lost use of my right hand and had to where a splint, which effect my work. Couldn't dress very well. It took an extremely long time. Could not drive as my neck was not co-operating, or my arms and shoulders. It was a terrible time.
Pred was like the miracle cure, however, reducing the dosage is not easy. I'm down to 11.5 mg as of this week. Some pain, but mostly manageable. Not in a rush as small amounts at a time (like .5 mg) seem to work better than a huge drop. It's not a race to get off the Prednisone. It's about pain management and quality of life during this time. Don't get dragged into the "you must reduce quickly" thing that some doctors and rheumatologist tend to believe. My new GP says slowly and if the pain returns go up a bit and he says "at least you are trying". All the best!

I can relate to you. The same thing is happening to me. I have been complaining for a number of months of pain in my neck, upper arms , shoulders, knees and hips. Because my sedimentation rate was ok my rheumatologist ignored me. Finally, after experiencing a week of horrible pain, my rheumatologist said he thought I had PMR! I was hoping that I would not have to increase the Prednisone again but he moved me up to 10 mg. The awful pain has subsided. Hallelujah!

My hands continue to be swollen and painful, especially in the morning. Rheumatologist says not PMR. Validating to hear from others who have the same issue as we deal with PMR. I do find that moving and exercising helps a lot, with my mood as well as my pain level. Sometimes it's hard to stay positive. Even when the pain is tolerable, it gets old. I so appreciate all of your posts, validations and helpful suggestions.

I was diagnosed with PMR back in Jan. 2022 and put on 20mg Prednisone immediately and the pain also subsided immediately (like overnight). I had been completely debilitated for the previous 5 months. Basically could do nothing, even sit on toilet or reach around. Lost use of my right hand and had to where a splint, which effect my work. Couldn't dress very well. It took an extremely long time. Could not drive as my neck was not co-operating, or my arms and shoulders. It was a terrible time.
Pred was like the miracle cure, however, reducing the dosage is not easy. I'm down to 11.5 mg as of this week. Some pain, but mostly manageable. Not in a rush as small amounts at a time (like .5 mg) seem to work better than a huge drop. It's not a race to get off the Prednisone. It's about pain management and quality of life during this time. Don't get dragged into the "you must reduce quickly" thing that some doctors and rheumatologist tend to believe. My new GP says slowly and if the pain returns go up a bit and he says "at least you are trying". All the best!

Hey Sharon - you're so right about moving and exercising. As the old saying goes "move it or lose it"!! I'm certainly a firm believer in that and find it really helps, not just with mobility but with mental health and wellbeing. Stay strong Sharon - you'll smash through this!!

When I exercise more than a very minimal amount, my pain increases a good deal for several days. I haven't found a solution for this.

Hey @tillysam that's awesome news that your pain has subsided. But what bloody nuisance having to go through all that period of pain. I was lucky (I guess) in that mine came on relatively quickly and became quite severe quickly - walking became very difficult. I;ve been on the Prednisone for about a month now - initially 25mg, now down to 20 mg and there's definitely positive progress. Never pain free, but definitely manageable and improving. I certainly consider myself to be very fortunate. Take care

When I exercise more than a very minimal amount, my pain increases a good deal for several days. I haven't found a solution for this.

Thanks for your reply. I truly think that my life will be a roller coaster with the Prednisone because every time I think I am at a good level something else hurts me.