As with fellow PMR sufferers shoulder pain has been a common factor
I started shoulder repair about 20 years ago with steroid injections and rotator cuff repairs. All of which gave temporary relief. In 2015 a surgeon put me forward for shoulder replacement but as pain was not the major factor I put it on hold. Of course against the background of the nhs in the doldrums the pain is now on a scale of 9/10 and shoulder movement is very limited. My Gp referred me to the private sector and again I have decided against shoulder replacement (cost £12,500!) but have opted for pain clinic.
The private pain doctor advised that only pain blockers will work but is required to follow the steps of first steroid injections and pain blockers later if the first step didn’t work. Needless to say they didn’t so having paid £1500 for nothing I now proceed to the second stage (suprascapula nerve block, axillary nerve block, trapezius trigger point injection performed with pulsed radio frequency in a day case unit) which will likely cost about £5,000 .
I now wish I hadn’t been on holidays !
Meanwhile I’ve asked about the NHS waiting list and as I’ve skipped the first stage it’s “ONLY” 8 months !
Apologies for inflicting yet another rant on you !
Private Rhuemy’s names and areas covered 
Consultants who see patients privately.
Does anyone still work with PMR or has anyone managed to get any sort of ill health retirement?
Vitamin D Supplements and Health
PMR inflammation and heart health
