New affliction with PMR/GCA

[Joseph14612]

So after 8 or so months on prednisone (started at 60 mg) for PMR and GCA, along with 10weeks of Actemra, I am down to 25 mg pred. Noticed a new problem for the last couple weeks....pain and cramping in the hands with fingers locking up. Has anyone else experienced this? And how can it be treated? It kind of comes and goes....I'm in the US and this site has helped me immensely...Thank you all for your support...

[PMRpro Ambassador]

Possibly low magnesium or calcium - try magnesium supplements first, not too much until you see how it affects you gut (can have a laxative effect!). You can put Epsom salts in the bath or use them as a footbath too.

Get your GP/PCP to check blood calcium and potassium levels. Not much point asking for magnesium - it can look fine in your blood but it scavenges from the muscles and the muscles can be depleted.

[Joseph14612 in reply to PMRpro]

Thank you...will check with Doc on Monday

[SnazzyD]

I found I needed to take magnesium supplements and eat potassium rich foods to avoid cramping. As the dose dropped, it was less severe.

[Joseph14612 in reply to SnazzyD]

Like banana's? Will do, thank you...

[Bridge31]

I have it quite often but only in my left hand . It always goes after a few minutes so I don’t worry about it. I take a magnesium and calcium supplement but only every other day because as PMRpro mentioned it does have a laxative effect !

[Joseph14612 in reply to Bridge31]

Thank you, I already started.....As always , great and sensible advice here....