Is polymalgia a lifelong thing?

Question

I was diagnosed with the above about 14 months ago, and was on steroids. unfortunately I put on weight, so I took myself off them. I have got to put up with the pain for the moment. But can it be a lifelong thing or not. By the way I tend to sleep on my left hand side with my right arm over my left shoulder and vice versa, but I have been told that would not cause it.

Answer 1

Carol, Polymalgia Rhematica is usually a life long problem with periods when it flairs up and settles down. Steroids work by supressing the inflammation and work well but as you say they do have side effects. I would recommend that you see a Rheumatologist to have a full review of medication.
Of interest I have found over the years that pure ginger (get it in the supermarket as the root) used daily seems to really help! Can't give you a scientific reason but its harmless and works... take a teaspoon amount 2 x a day or add it to food. Give it a try, you might be surprised.

Answer 2

Polymalgia like all inflammatory conditions will have periods of flare followed by remission. I am surprised your Rheumatologist put you on steroids, rather than anti-inflammatory drugs. The reason being steroids while they do work can cause you to put on weight. Then the vicious circle starts, weight, exercise another flare, more steroids, weight, exercise and you keep going. It has nothing to do with the way you sleep, it is inflammation of the muscles. I am not sure if you have thought about other treatments to try and control it, like looking for whatever the 'trigger' is, perhaps a cold, infection, or are you doing something like painting, decorating. You might like to try a nice massage, sauna, steam room, even swimming.
Yes you will always have flares and remissions which is why it is important to try and figure out what the trigger is, easier said than done. Could be anything including your diet.

Answer 3

Not necessarily. It is thought to be age related and can go away within a year or two with the right treatment.

If treatment is stopped too early it will return.