Is it PMR related?

[braininjurythepits]

I’ve been reducing from 8mg to 7.5 of Prednisolone for three weeks, one of each every other day. A few days ago I noticed my right shoulder was a little achey, and it now is more painful and beginning to feel a bit frozen. I have no pain anywhere else, not in the other shoulder nor in my hips, hands or legs. I can’t tell if it’s PMR related or if I have somehow unknowingly injured it. I have had no problems when on 8mg, but so want to get down to 7.5, every successful reduction makes me feel more optimistic.

My question is, should I abandon the 7.5 and go back up to 8mg, or pay a visit to my rheumy for a shot in the shoulder, in the hope that it’s unrelated? Thank you for your advice 🙂

Diagnosed Sept 2018, starting dose 10mg Prednisolone

[SheffieldJane]

This is a common symptom. Not directly PMR but of course related but can perhaps be helped by ordinary painkillers or gentle physio. It is something to do with the weakening of muscles, but the name escapes me. Somebody who slept last night will be along soon. I would see your doctor as it is more than twinges.

[SnazzyD]

Hello, firstly I haven’t had PMR, just GCA. However, it has taken me over a year since around the 8mg mark for my shoulders not to pack up if I used them. I think it was due to the muscle wasting from Pred because as I’ve got stronger it has reduced too. Withdrawal also made feel achey generally. There is also no way I would have felt ok alternating 0.5mg reduction alternate days without trouble so I introduced the new dose very slowly.

[PMRpro Ambassador]

Not even sure a shot is the answer - not without a diagnosis. Physio might be more appropriate.

[braininjurythepits]

Thank you so much for your comments, all very helpful 🙂 an appointment with my rheumatologist tomorrow— Christmas and frozen shoulder not a good mix!

[braininjurythepits]

Update: my rheumy (Dr R Hughes) confirms a flare — due to trying to reduce to 7.5, had a booster shot and he advises to carry on and see how it goes —- fingers crossed and thank you for all your help 🙂