SnazzyD

Sounds like you need a new doc. I don’t see how they can tell what the cause is without seeing you. It needs to be established whether this is neurological eg spinal, vascular or more mechanical like osteoarthritis or inflammatory like rheumatoid arthritis. As you are on very low Pred, I would have thought that basic blood tests for some of these or even a PET scan (for large vessel Vasculitis) would be a reasonable ask. With new symptoms like these i think that to wave them off is not very professional in my humble opinion.

Mgeorge in reply to SnazzyD

Thanks, I agree! I’ll see the RA on Monday and see if I get assistance.

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PMRproAmbassador

Claudication is pain that develops when walking - it starts after you have walked some distance and is usually in your calves. It stops when you stop walking and then starts again when you walk again. So that is nothing like what you describe.

This

uprighthealth.com/hard-to-s...

might explain it, as might this

chicagoveininstitute.com/co...

Pred doesn't do muscles much good, especially if you also are fairly inactive, and they tend to get weaker over time. That will make it increasingly difficult to stand up. It might be a good idea to speak to your GP about getting some advice from a physiotherapist - they are often better at this sort of thing than the average doctor!

Mgeorge in reply to PMRpro

You’re right. My pain is always there, sitting or standing. Since I had jaw claudication, I have always wondered how my other vessels were doing. Luckily I have a great physical therapist on call. I swam and biked 3 days a week, til my diverticulitis diagnosis. Once that’s cleared, I’ll be back to the gym . Could RA be appearing now that I’m so low on prednisone?

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PMRproAmbassador in reply to Mgeorge

It doesn't really sound like RA either. Sounds very muscular/possibly venous - which is the place to start the diagnostic journey.

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Mgeorge in reply to PMRpro

Thank you. Your knowledgeable words are greatly appreciated .

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SheffieldJane

I really would not be content with my Rheumie’s advice when he hadn’t even seen me. Something major is going on. I would be seeking a specialist in Vascular medicine as a matter of urgency. To me it sounds like Vasculitis. Anyway a new good doctor is called for. We maybe able to recommend one if you are in the U.K. where are you?