PMR relationship with steroids

[WinsladesOffload]

I have a pretty basic question. Do steroids actively help to get rid of PMR, or do they simply reduce / remove your symptoms and hence provide relief from the pain ? Are we really dependant on some unknown bodily function to go into remission ?

[TandemTime]

The steriods reduce inflammation and help get our bodies moving again .This gives us a window of opportunity to heal ourselves is my thought..

I believe cortisol levels are affected by the steroids, we are not getting that early morning terrible pain, which was the worst symptom as you loose sleep. To be waking in pain is not restful and to have some sleep back is very beneficial.

How does that sound?

[SnazzyD]

No they don’t get rid of the PMR but they do block painful and potentially worsening inflammation. It isn’t good to have chronic inflammation bubbling away and the effects of putting up with the pain can cause worsening musculoskeletal functioning and loss of fitness. When you get to the age group that tends to get PMR that can be significant and hard to regain.

You take them while you wait for the body’s immune system to stop attacking itself. That bit is a bit of a mystery still. While we are waiting the body needs to be helped by supporting the muscles and joints with careful exercise and avoiding overdoing it.

[WinsladesOffload in reply to SnazzyD]

Many thanks, that is a very clear explanation and just what I need.

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer]

As stated, Pred only addresses the inflammation caused by PMR , it doesn’t cure the underlying illness, in fact there is no cure.

Have a look at this -

healthunlocked.com/pmrgcauk...

..and plenty more info in FAQ under the heading PMR

[WinsladesOffload in reply to DorsetLady]

Excellent, thanks DL