severe lower back pain

[astley123]

I am male 83 years old I was diagnosed with GCA six years ago with some symptoms of PMR. after reducing prednisolone from 20mgs with ups and downs I am currently on 5mgs daily. It has left me with the usual very weak muscles , fatigue and generally feeling unwell with slight headaches most of the time. In the last year or two I have developed severe lower back ache/pain when active that is when cooking a meal or pottering in the garden(nothing heavy). The result is I have to keep sitting down and the ache gradually disappears. I have similar problem with upper arms and shoulders but nowhere as bad.

Any thoughts anybody.

[PMRpro Ambassador]

Myofascial pain syndrome and spasming of the lower back muscles, possibly as part of piriformis syndrome or greater trochanteric pain syndrome though it would need a proper physcial exam to decide which bits are involved.

But I also suspect you need just a bit more pred - there is not quite enough to keep the inflammation from the PMR cleared out and it has built up enough to be on the cusp of a flare and affect your back. At least - if it is the same as I have!!

As it happens, I have just been discussing it with Prof Mackie and she agrees about the role of myofascial pain syndrome alongside PMR. What we aren't sure about is which is first - but once they are entrenched, it is very hard to manage.

[fastbird]

Oh, What a painful experience. I'm sorry you're going through this. Get well soon.