Do any tests differentiate PMR from osteoporosis?

[Captainjonny]

I have had PMR for 3+ years and have managed to reduce to 2mg daily. It has never really "gone" ... still aches, especially around the shoulders and neck. These have become more severe recently, I was struck by an item from PMRPro who said older folk are often told it might be osteoporosis. My doctor mentioned this some time ago (I'm now 70) and it is a possibility as it affects my siblings. However, are there any tests I should be having after this time with PMR as my diagnosis to confirm it still is there? Or, is there any way of knowing that these pains are more likely the onset of osteoporosis? Any pointers appreciated. Thanks.

[SheffieldJane]

As part of treatment we should all have DEXA Scans for bone density every 2 or 3 years. These identify those of us who have Osteoporosis or are in danger of developing it. It is on this basis and this basis only that Alendronic Acid and similar drugs should be considered.

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer in reply to SheffieldJane]

That's a good one, didn't work before Covid, can't see it working now!

[SheffieldJane in reply to DorsetLady]

Well we can ask. I am not taking a heavy duty drug just in case. Personally I have found Leeds much more amenable to giving scans than Sheffield. Perhaps it depends were you are Sue?

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer in reply to SheffieldJane]

And your Rheumy probably - you have a good one 😊

[SheffieldJane in reply to DorsetLady]

Thanks to this forum.

[Viv54 in reply to DorsetLady]

If ONLY !!😦

[whitefishbay in reply to SheffieldJane]

Haha. You make me laugh. As if they would offer a Dexa Scan.

[PMRpro Ambassador]

When I said patients are told it is osteoporosis - I almost certainly also pointed out that osteoporosis is not painful like PMR unless you develop a fragility related fracture!

The test for osteoporosis is a dexascan. I'd say you are probably at slightly too low a dose to manage the PMR inflammation - and raising your pred dose wouldn't relieve osteoporosis frature pain but would help PMR.

[Captainjonny in reply to PMRpro]

Thank you, I will follow your advice.

[piglette]

Ask your doctor for a Dexascan. If you are on steroids you should have had one anyway. It will tell you your bone density.

[Fimckenz]

I am in Shropshire and have regular dexascans referred by my gp. It has never been a problem.

[Thelmarina]

This link may be useful for you theros.org.uk

[Captainjonny in reply to Thelmarina]

Thank you; I’ll have a read.

[PMRpro Ambassador in reply to Captainjonny]

Their helpline is excellent.