throbbing ribs

[Marley12b]

Hi I have been completely off steroids since September 2023 for GCA. However I have developed throbbing joints especially in the evenings mainly in my ribs but the last few days in most of my body. It’s very uncomfortable and prevents sleep. Does it sound like a PMR symptom? I’m waiting on a rheumatologist appointment but wondered if I needed to check for something else. Thanks Julie

[PMRpro Ambassador]

If it is specifically joints then no, that is not typical of PMR. It is muscles and the soft tissue attachments around joints that are usually affected. Sounds very unusual.

[SheffieldJane]

It sounds a bit like the Costochondritis that I have had. An inflammation of the tendons that support the ribs. Then other pain joins in because you are moving in a way that protects the ribs. It would be interesting to hear the Rheumatologist’s opinion. As I recall the only treatment was painkillers and rest. Let us know the outcome.

[piglette]

Have you tried taking a painkiller to see if that helps?

[PMRCanada]

Perhaps request bloodwork to see in CRP and ESR are raised. That may help in determining what the symptoms are.