Return of pain in different places

[Iamfedup]

Hi, I started on 20mg of Pred last September got down to 8mg by May but I have twice tried to get down to 7.5 but each time some pain returns. The first time in my right arm and the second time in the back of my legs at the top. Initially I had pain all over except my left arm but find it strange that it comes back in different places?

[PMRpro Ambassador]

It is quite common for PMR symptoms to appear in different places in flares and probably why so many don't recognise what is happening.

You are never reducing relentlessly to zero pred - you are titrating the dose to find the optimum dose for YOU: the lowest dose that manages the symptoms as well as the starting dose did. Everyone is different, their PMR is different, their response to pred is different and their needs are different. By tapering carefully you will identify YOUR individual dose which will vary over time - and you can't compare yourself with anyone else. Well, you can, but it isn;t a valid comparison!

[Sportsgirl in reply to PMRpro]

So glad to see this post. I also am experiencing a return of discomfort now that I am trying to reduce to 5 mg of prednisone. My fingers, buttocks, ankles, and arms are aching again. I have been reducing from 15 mg using the slow method since I reached 9 mg. I believe I was really good at 7 mg and started getting twinges after that. Should I go back to 7 mg?

This post is the best. I have referred others here. Thanks for all your time.

[PMRpro Ambassador in reply to Sportsgirl]

I can't say it often enough: No-one is never reducing relentlessly to zero - you are looking for the lowest dose that works as well as the starting dose did. It sounds as if 7mg was that dose - for now at least. It doesn't mean you won't get lower - just not yet.

[Sportsgirl in reply to PMRpro]

Are you feeling like broken record? We all on this forum can’t tell you enough how we appreciate everyone’s patience and knowledge and advice.

As for me, I just wanted reassurance from the 'Pro'. 💐

[PMRpro Ambassador in reply to Sportsgirl]