Following diagnosis in Aug 23 and being on 15mg of Pred I’ve been able to return to work on a phased basis in Jan.
Mentally I’m ready to exercise the nodules and engage, physically the adjustment isn’t so smooth.
Many months off work re-enforces the fact you have a serious illness and it doesn’t go away overnight. It’s frustrating not to have the same energy levels and battling the daily lottery of feelings, but the trajectory is positive.
Life is far for normal, it’s a start!
What do you do? I'm in computers, so it made that made it very easy to work from home, which really made a difference.
Similar here - I worked freelance translating, couldn't have worked if I had had to commute anywhere. And freelance means you fix your hours - also makes a big difference. I went to the gym/pool first and worked later.
I work in IT and have to travel to various UK sites. 50% home based and fairly flexible to be honest
I worked in a primary school teaching the nursery class, and unfortunately despite 3 phased returns ( after very long absences) I just couldn't manage the sheer physical aspects of the job and was medically retired. Your job type will definitely determine whether you succeed in returning to work, so I wish you all the best.
My common phrase on this site: you are not alone. Went to small botanical garden today. After an hour of slowly walking around, I simply could go no further. I sat down and sent my friend to continue exploring.
I was 70 when diagnosed with PMR and had been suffering for about 4 months with sore shoulders originally thought to be sprains, strains or rotator cuff injuries. I was working 3 six and a half hour shifts a week as a support worker in a care home and apart from having 2 weeks off sick when I had a flare I’ve continued to work. I try to have a “Nanna nap” for an hour or so on the days I work and that helps me. I was retired from my previous job and cared for my husband for several years until he died 5 years ago and I was lost for how to fill my days until I saw the care home advertising for staff. I work for the companionship more than anything and would hate to have to leave so sometimes it’s just my pig headed determination that keeps me going!
Mfaepink1973 determination gets you a long way and learning to live with PMR isn’t easy. Glad to hear your story
I am doing a similar job now for 7 weeks, it has helped me mentally and socially for sure.
What to do about work
Still not well enough to go back to work
Good blood work; still in pain
Few, what a couple of days!
Have to return to Actemra
