Left side worse than right, anyone else?

Posted , 7 users are following.

Hello,

Joining to group to learn more about this PMR, of which I was diagnosed with almost two years ago. It started in my left elbow and wrist. It has progressed to where all major joints, left and right were very painful. Prednisone has been a life saver, but it has its own challenges. I have not had a serious flare in 10 months. I was at a point 6 months ago where we (my doctor and me), started tapering down the prednisone.

However, what I've noticed this past month is that my left side feels more affected. I have pain in my left foot now, heel and ball of my foot. But, my right foot is fine. My left hip is painful, but not my right hip.

PMR , as I have read, is supposed to affect joints bilaterally. Anyone else experience one side being more affected than the other?

Cheers.

0 likes, 3 replies

3 Replies

  • Posted

    Do you think your foot problem is Plantar Fasciitis? Your hip could be something else as well, eg bursitis, osteoarthritis

  • Posted

    I have to say that when I hear people say they have joint pain - I suspect it may not be "just" PMR. I had sore feet and hands, but I would never have said I had joint pain, it was always much more muscles.

    PMR is supposedly characteristically bilateral but there are reports in the literature of cases of PMR that only affect one side or predominantly one side.

  • Posted

    Hi Mac - I was diagnosed with PMR in August 2018. It affected my lower legs, hips, upper arms and neck. Pain went with 20mg prednisone, leaving only trigger points in upper left arm and - occasionally in the neck. 5mg seems to be a sustainable level to keep it under control. No pain during this time. Last week I saw the rheumatologist who has approved continuing on daily 5mg, two-monthly blood tests and regular checkups.

    I am right-handed, so glad it doesn't disable that side. And as Eileen says - it is definitely in the muscles.

    All the best.

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