Finally - a diagnosis!

[Paul76]

Further to my last few posts about back and hip problems, bulging discs and extreme pain, I finally have a diagnosis. I got a quick appointment with the NHS orthopaedic department, possibly because on my GPs referral she mentioned that problems on my MRI had been missed. I have been diagnosed with spinal stenosis which was a bit of a blow but at least I know what I’m dealing with. The pain relief prescribed by my GP has helped enormously. I still have pain but it’s much more manageable. I’m now going for walks 4-5 times a week for 40 minutes and can now walk a bit longer without the walking stick. I know this condition won’t get any better but my quality of life has definitely improved with this lovely GP who is very flexible. I’m tapering the pred at 1mg every 4-6 weeks and now down to 10mgs with no ill effects. If this continues I’ll slow the taper down as I reach the problem dose for the adrenal glands. It’s been a long hard and very painful journey but I can now say my life has changed for the better. Only problem is that I have been going to aquafit 5 times a week but our gym was damaged in a huge storm in January and is now closed. Looks like next year before it will open aaargh!,

[Polywotsit PMRGCAuk team member]

I'm so glad you have a) a diagnosis, b) a positive spin on it, and c) a GP you like and trust. Well done you!

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer]

Well at least you know what has been causing your problems. As you say maybe not the answer you wanted, but at least it being treated, and that’s must be a bonus.

Good luck..

[Baner]

I was diagnosed with this about 2 years ago, after advice from GP had a few sessions with a physio, very gentle treatment as was worried it might aggravate my PMR. Back pain has settled down unless I walk too far or stand for too long. The physio taught me a couple of exercises which I do when I need to which seems to help keep pain under control.

[PMRpro Ambassador]

Not something you want to hear but it is better to know what is lurking and if there is the option to improve the symptoms - better still.

[random901]

Hi Paul76! I'm on 11 pred, with dreadful lumbar/hip pains. Hoping to have some sort of diagnosis end May when I see bone specialist. Physio's exercises helpful, as are various gadgets he's had installed around house. Hospital bed arriving soon for downstairs so I can stop trying to kip on chairs and sofas! Long may the increased mobility continue!

[Viv54]

Great to hear you are feeling better. Would you mind telling me what medication you have been given for your pain,i have very similar problems to you and over the years my medication does not seem to be doing to the trick, plus still getting over 2 hip replacements that seem to be taking for ever to recover. Might help if my Dr tried something new for my pain.Thank you.

[Paul76 in reply to Viv54]

I’m on a minimal dose of tramadol(50mg) which helps with nerve pain and I have to take 2 paracetamol at the same time. It does not get rid of the pain but certainly helps and this is the first time painkillers have worked for me. I take them 3-4 times daily. Good luck.