Checking in: 3 yrs on pred and now down to 2mg... - PMRGCAuk

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Checking in

Alazarin profile image
10 Replies

3 yrs on pred and now down to 2mg. Going v slow .5mg at a time over many weeks.

I feel so much better, the pred effects are almost gone, ( night sweats, anxiety, tiredness, brain fog etc) but my body is so weak. I have no muscle strength and no power, if I slightly over do it I hurt. Painkillers and a rest will see it off.

Not sure what my plan is now, but I would like some advice on regaining strength.

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Alazarin profile image
Alazarin
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PMRpro profile image
PMRproAmbassador

Even once you have stopped pred altogether it is considered it can take a year to get back to normal - I'd suspect this is just your body getting used to the adrenal function settling down which does take time. If it were the PMR it is unlikely that painkillers and a rest would see it off - but maybe you need some reminders about pacing?

healthunlocked.com/pmrgcauk......

The gorilla may have reached the garden - but I suspect he is still nipping in to use the loo ;)

Alazarin profile image
Alazarin in reply to PMRpro

So true, Pro. I did think it was the adrenal function, myself, and yes pacing is an experiment at the moment. Thanks for the reassurance.

YuliK profile image
YuliK in reply to PMRpro

🤣🤣🤣

Louisa1840 profile image
Louisa1840 in reply to PMRpro

LOVE this analogy Pro!!!

123-go profile image
123-go

Walking is good, Alazarin, but as others say and you yourself understand, pacing is vital. When you go for a walk remember you have to get back home so no five mile hikes 😂😂. Heel raises are good for leg muscles: stand at the kitchen worktop for support and raise yourself on to your toes, for a count of three/five and lower your heels gently ( try not to sway and keep your back straight). For your arms you can hold a tin of something in each hand and bring your hands up to shoulder height with arms close to your sides. Just do what you feel absolutely comfortable with. 🙂

DorsetLady profile image
DorsetLadyPMRGCAuk volunteer

Some general info on exercising….healthunlocked.com/pmrgcauk...

SheffieldJane profile image
SheffieldJane

I have bought a set of pedals, once recommended by DorsetLady, from a disability equipment shop. You can manually exercise your arms and or legs with it, thereby increasing muscle strength. You can tighten it to make it stiffer. I had noticed a weak feeling sometimes in my arms and legs. They were only about £20.00, there are much fancier ones. The jury is still out. So far I just look at it and try not to trip over it.

Louisa1840 profile image
Louisa1840

I would try some very gentle exercises like Tai Chi, yoga or aqua aerobics in a warm pool. Well done on getting so low, I'm over four years in and on six and a half but I'll get there......

Alazarin profile image
Alazarin

Thankyou for all your helpful comments. Lots to try. If the gorilla lets me.

PMRpro profile image
PMRproAmbassador in reply to Alazarin

If you start quietly enough you won't wake him up!

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