Poly myalgia /Methotrexate/Steroids

jth

Hi,

I’ve been a sufferer of RA for over 12 years it’s been kept reasonably under control over these years with 25 ml of methotrexate once a week, these last six months been getting pains in neck and shoulders after the mildest of activity ie, walking, cleaning the car, vacuuming the floor etc. I’ve found that if I sit down for ten minutes it eases and goes away. This last week has been a constant pain and not easing at all, it’s been a very uncomfortable week.

Searching the internet I believe that it’s “ Polymyalga rheumatica “ which can be eased with steroids and is quite effective, but steroids are not recommended with methotrexate, has anyone have the same conditions that can advise?

any advice will be welcome

Terry😁

jamieA

https://community.versusarthritis.org/discussion/56784/poly-myalgia-methotrexate-steroids

Hi @jth

When I was put on MTX in February 2021 I was still on a course of Prednisolone steroid tablets. I've also had about 10 Kenalog steroid injections since then - the last being last month. No-one has ever suggested to me to stop the MTX when on steroids - either pills or injections.

anneb82

Hello @jth

Welcome to the online community and thank you for joining us. I hope that you will fine this a safe and friendly space where you can continue to share with us all.

So you have been diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis for the last 12 years but fine that it is kept reasonably under control by taking methotrexate. For the last 6 moths you have been getting pain in your neck and shoulders after every simple activity. The last week has been particularly bad and will not ease at all regardless of what you do. You have done some research on the internet and think that it is Polymyalgia rheumatica. In your research you have found that this condition can be eased by steroids but these as not effective if you take methotrexate.

It does sound like this last week has been a struggle for you which can not be very nice. I think in your circumstances I really would stress the importance of getting in touch with your GP as I think it is important that you get checked out which can help to get an official diagnosis.

Ive included information below about the condition you have been looking up as well as information on hints and tips on managing your pain. I hope this helps.

https://www.versusarthritis.org/about-arthritis/conditions/polymyalgia-rheumatica-pmr/

https://www.versusarthritis.org/about-arthritis/managing-symptoms/managing-your-pain/

Please do keep posting, and please do let us know how you are getting on. Im sure other members of the community will be able to offer you help and guidance with this.

Take care

Anne (moderator)

stickywicket

Hi Terry,

PMR needs a proper diagnosis and treatment. Both my sister and my daughter-in-law have it. I'd suggest you ring your rheumatology helpline for advice. Having had RA (but no PMR) for many years, it seems to me it might simply be that flaring but it does need checking out.

jth

Thank you all for your comments, especially Jamie gives me hope that I can get some relief, I had a blood test Friday and awaiting the results to confirm PMA.

ONCE AGAIN THANK YOU?