Peripheral Neuropathy and PMR?

Hi @bb1, My PMR is currently in remission but I also have small fiber peripheral neuropathy. There may be a connection but I've never felt my PMR or prednisone treatment has had any connection with my neuropathy. Mainly because I've had neuropathy more than 20+ years that started in my toes and gradually got to my feet and legs. My PMR diagnosis was much later in life in my 60s and it's come and gone twice. There is another discussion you might want to read through here:
-- Peripheral Neuropathy - Result of PMR or Prednisone?
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/peripheral-neuropathy-8/.

Here's an older article that my shed some light on the question. It's not specifically about PMR but RA and I was told by my rheumy PMR is arthritis all over the body (layman's terms):
"Neuropathic symptoms are common in RA patients, and it is difficult to distinguish peripheral neuropathy symptoms from those of arthritis. Patients with RA, particularly elderly patients and anti-CCP antibody positive patients who complain of neuropathic symptoms should undergo electrophysiological examination."
-- Assessment of Peripheral Neuropathy in Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis Who Complain of Neurologic Symptoms: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4026612/

Yes, I have had PMR for 6+ years and have had neuropathy in the toes and balls of my feet. I believe mine is what they call Diabetic Neuropathy, as prednisone raised my normal blood sugar readings to pre-diabetic levels. As my prednisone dose has lowered over the years (currently at 3 mg) and after being put on Metformin to help lower my A1C readings, the neuropathy has become less intense and noticeable. It isn't gone but it's reduced to the point that I only notice it now when I have my shoes off. Initially it was not enjoyable but I was fortunate to never have a severe case.

I have had episodes of neuropathy, lasting usually three or four days, in one ankle or the other. It goes away as mysteriously as it comes. I think it might have something to do with electrolyte imbalance. Prednisone drains away potassium so that sodium is dominant. I think it helps to drink Gatorade-but maybe that's just me, or just a coincidence.

I have had neuropathy for 5 years. Acupuncture has helped with the symptoms. Now I have been diagnosed with PMR. I started on Prednisone and it helps with the joint pain. However, my neuropathy has flared up and it is painful. Looking for anyone who has this issue.

I had some neuropathy symptoms. My bottom of my feet were hurting so badly. My Acupuncturist did moxibustion treatments and it has not come back in months. This was before I was diagnosed with PMR.
I just came down with shingles so I am reminded of what it feels like. Not fun..

Hello @leon1649, Welcome to Connect. I also have PMR and neuropathy but my PMR is currently in remission. You will notice that we moved your post to the following existing discussion on the same topic so that you connect with @bb1, @raven1955 and @pkalkstein who also have PMR along with neuropathy.

--- Peripheral Neuropathy and PMR?: https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/peripheral-neopathy/.

Prednisone pretty much took care of all of my PMR joint pain but didn't help with my neuropathy symptoms which for me is numbness only and no pain. I do take supplements for the neuropathy which help some. I posted my neuropathy story in another discussion here - https://connect.mayoclinic.org/comment/310341/.

Have you tried treatments other than Acupuncture for your neuropathy?

Thanks John
I have worked with my doctor and a neurologist. They prescribed gabapentin.

Thank you for the idea of moxibuston.
I’ll talk with my acupuncturist.

Thank you
The neuropathy preceded the pmr by 6 years. So, not sure if they are connected.

When my PMR was active I had neuropathy symptoms in my hands and arms consisting of numbness and tingling resembling carpal tunnel syndrome. These symptoms resolved as my PMR went into remission.