PMR best treated by PCP or rheumatologist?

Posted by sullyg @sullyg, Sep 1 10:13am

Thought I had Lyme disease from a deer tick back in June. Kind of wishing it had been Lyme because after a series of blood tests along with the painful symptoms, it’s looking like PMR.
I’ve been trying to knock the pain down with Celebrex and other anti-inflammatories. Still doing 6:30 am yoga despite the pain and limited range of motion. I find if I stay active all day I feel better. It’s when I stop it’s hard to start up again.
There are rheumatologist nearby. Should I be trying to get in touch with them rather than waiting on my PCP. He had mentioned giving me 50 mg of prednisone so I can enjoy my son‘s wedding next week. Then stop and plan.
Any recommendations appreciated!

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peridash | @peridash | Sep 8 7:27am

I agree with the others re: 50 mg sounding like a high dose of prednisone. After several months of inexplicable knee pain, I asked my PCP to order a sed rate (per the recommendation of my sister, who has PMR). My level was extremely high and the PCP started me on prednisone 15 mg/day and referred me to a rheumatologist. I experienced nearly complete resolution of the pain within 24 hours, making it possible for me to get through the several weeks until I could be seen by a rheumatologist. The rheumatologist performed additional bloodwork which helped confirmed the diagnosis of PMR, and has been a great support over the past year as I’ve navigated the challenges of living with PMR and prednisone side effects. I’ve been able to taper down to 3 mg and will try 2.5 mg beginning this week. My goal is to stop prednisone altogether and remain pain-free. 🙂 I’d encourage you to be under the care of a rheumatologist; they’re much more familiar with autoimmune disorders.

janetlee2026 | @janetlee2026 | Sep 22 8:40pm

When my pcp did blood tests and I had the pain and told him my symptoms he suggested and referred me to a rheumatologist. I have PMR Rheumatologists specialize in autoimmune diseases. Also going on prednisone at 50mg is high to start with. Also prednisone is not something you want to just stop after the wedding. You need to taper down slowly as it can cause more harm than good otherwise. Maybe you can ask your PCP if he can refer you to a Rheumatologist. They will probably give you more blood tests and give you the correct amount of prednisone. Good luck