Increased my dose but still in pain

[marrabone]

I have been reducing according to the schedule given to me by Professor Hughes. I had got down to 10mg and was due to reduce to 9 on 2nd Feb. However, as l 'd had pain in my upper arms and to some small degree in my shoulders and back of thighs, l decided it might be better to temporarily go back to 12.5 mgs in an effort to get back on track. I have never reduced when in pain as l have been advised on here that its unwise. Its approaching 2 weeks now and the pain has not gone or even improved although it's not at all unbearable, just a nuisance. It's much better when my meds have kicked in but still there. I am concerned that l could end up going backwards and l really don't know what to do for the best.

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer]

As you have followed the first response to pain returning [back to previous dose] and it hasn't worked perhaps you should try the flare protocol as outlined in link -

healthunlocked.com/pmrgcauk...

as you have already added 2.5mg for almost 2 weeks, maybe just add another 2.5mg to take you to 15mg - for one week only and see if that helps. If it does, then you may be able to drop back to 10mg [no lower] with an interim stop at 12.5mg for 5-7 days.

if it doesnt help, then you need to contact Prof Hughes for his advice.

If it does help, then maybe stay at 10mg for a month, and then try just 0.5mg a time rather than 1mg...

..and are you treating yourself as a poorly person and resting/pacing yourself - or returned to normal activities? Just asking..😏

[marrabone in reply to DorsetLady]

l will try this before going back to Professor Hughes. I haven't been doing anything too strenuous but l do live on my own so l have to do the bare minimum at least. I have just had a very stressful 10 days or so, perhaps it has not helped. I appreciate your help, many thanks.

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer in reply to marrabone]

Stressful days -hit the nail on the head … and know all about living by yourself.. needs must sometimes ☺️

[PMRpro Ambassador in reply to marrabone]

I live alone too - I think I do less than the bare minimum!!! The worst is summer and 2 international tax declarations!!!

[marrabone in reply to PMRpro]

Well l am inclined to do too much sometimes but l haven't lately, its just the stress. l was scammed by a dodgy roofer, entirely my fault really for not following my instincts. He's done damage to my roof to get more business. I am usually quite savvy in these things. I used to do my husbands books and l hated it, l'm so glad not to have those tax declarations!

[PMRpro Ambassador in reply to marrabone]

Oh dear - that's awful. Not my responsibility here - the condo manager deals with that sort of thing! Same for the flat my younger daughter lives in and in future the other daughter and partner will have to deal with the roof over my head - and when it comes to being sceptical, she is way ahead of even me!

[PMRpro Ambassador]

Just because Rod gave you a typical tapering schedule doesn't mean it will work for everyone. DL has suggested trying the flare protocol and if that doesn't work then you may need to email Prof Hughes and ask for advice.

[marrabone]

I was fine after reducing from 12.5 to 10mg but the pain kicked in after a couple of weeks. I will try DL's advice and if not go back to the Prof. Thanks for the advice.

[PMRpro Ambassador in reply to marrabone]

It does take a bit sometimes before the pain reappears - and you say you have been under stress - and stress often makes PMR flare. Just try slowing down a bit ...

[Groggrim]

Hi, PMRpro is right about stress. I have found that either the condition (mine is mild) or the prednisolone reduces my resources to deal with stress. We have a difficult ongoing family situation just now and it surprised me how much symptoms returned as a result.

[marrabone in reply to Groggrim]

Hi, yes it's true, l have noticed it before. It's easier to reduce physical activity. Stress seems to come and find us. I hope it turns out well for you and the family.