Steroids and pre-existing arthritic joints

[Agavegirl]

I was diagnosed with GCA in May, currently on 17.5 mg Pred. I have had an arthritic hip for years that has given me very little bother. Since diagnosis my hip pain and stiffness has varied between manageable and needing constant pain relief. My rheumatologist says it is not PMR because it is only in one hip and my steroid level should be dealing with it if it were. Any ideas? Should I speak to GP?

[SheffieldJane]

I wonder if you are moving differently or less? My Osteoarthritis flared up too - cervical spondylosis. It did respond to painkillers and settled down again. On very low dose Pred my knees and ankles really hurt, especially the left. These symptoms flared and wore off.

[PMRpro Ambassador]

It could be trochanteric bursitis - that is part of PMR and it can be worse on one side than the other. Oral pred MAY deal with it- but not necessarily. Localised steroid injections work far better.

[piglette]

Have you had an xray to see if there is osteo arthritis?

[Agavegirl in reply to piglette]

Yes - there are signs of osteoarthritis

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[piglette in reply to Agavegirl]

Has anyone suggested what can be done to help?