PMR and work
Posted , 5 users are following.
I've been reading many of the comments posted on this site for the first time, despite having had pmr for several years with fluctuating intensity. I have found it reassuring and enlightening so thank you to all those who have previously commented!
I am prompted to post my own question as I wondered if anyone out there is in the same situation as me - that is currently off sick from work with pmr? It is the first time I have had to take sick leave, having managed to keep working up till now, but finally had to give in in May this year as things got steadily worse, despite very supportive manager and, initially adjusted hours (including working from home one day a week). I'm now wondering if I'll ever get back to work as there seems to be no improvement. I am currently on 6mg prednisalone and 12.5mg methetrexate but have not had any improvement since starting on the methetrexate. I'm wondering if I should think about early retirement. Has anyone taken retirement on health grounds due to pmr? Look forward to hearing any comments!
0 likes, 7 replies
queenbee
Posted
Regards
Betty
Spammy
Posted
Yesterday I felt terrible, pains in my hands and shoulders and could not walk straight or stand for long. Today I have been to our local garden centre where we had coffee (without my hands shaking) sitting outside and when we got home my husband and I went for a walk up the lane into the country side for about 3/4 hr. I can not understand why some days are better than others as I take the same tablets each day. I started on 20mg steroids last August went down to 5mg but up to 10mg again.
I would have said that work takes your mind of your pains but I don't think that is true. I do think that stress makes it worst. Is your work stressful? I find painting helps me, and if my hands are not too steady then it will be modern art.
I believe you have to do what you think best and how you feel.
It does help to have an sympathetic partner.
I will try do the walk again tomorrow if all being well.
Good luck with your decision.
Spammy
Nefret
Posted
I worked full-time with PMR since diagnosis in 2001 until last summer when I was very ill and crunch-time came. I had to make the decision to go part-time as I just could not continue.
My work colleagues, including management, are just about the most caring and supportive people I could have wished for and although it was too much of a struggle at times and I would have to take time off, I was always welcomed back gladly.
I'm fortunate that I have an unusual and interesting job and since the one thing I have mostly been able to do is go to work and sit in front of a computer, I haven't really found it stressful - I find it more stressful sitting at home and looking at the ironing I can't do, the floors I can't wash, and the inch-thick dust everywhere I can do nothing about.
I now find, working part-time, that I have the time to do these things slowly rather than having to rush at them all on a 'good' day (which then turns into a 'bad' day because I overdo it). I also need the incentive of having to get myself up and about on work days, too - it motivates me to perhaps accomplish more at home before the working days come around.
I should be retiring come October this year, but I have already been asked to stay on (for as long as I like, really) and that is what I intend to do.
How long that will be is anyone's guess!
Oh, sitting in front of a computer is only part of my job - but when I'm not well I let others do the running about!
Guest
Posted
Spammy - like you I paint and draw - I like the idea of modern art when hands are not working right. I have very bad Osteoarthritris in mine - very knobbly and painful, but no shakes so far. Typing on the computer is very uncomfortable and it is the thing I have found most beneficial since being off work!
I don't find the work I do stressful (though it is generally considered a stressful occupation! I refuse to be stressed) but by the time I went off sick I realised I was stressed simply by trying to get to work and keep all the balls in the air as well as managing my pain.
Queenbee - I do think the distraction of work helped me go on so long, but eventually became too much. I now find the painting is a good distraction though suffer when I try to move again after sitting for an hour or so!
Nefret, your situation sounds quite similar to mine - I had pmr first diagnosed in 2002 and have managed to work full time since until recently. Like you I have a brilliant team and manager who couldn't have been more suppportive and I really enjoy my job - though the difficulties recently have reduced my enthusiasm considerably! If I can get back to work it is quite likely I will go part time. Currently I manage the cleaning etc by having a cleaner, but if I am part time that may have to go.
The most frustrating thing at the moment is that the methatrexate is not making any difference and I don't have an appt with the consultant until November! My GP is very good though will have to go back to her to see where next!
Barbara
Wallis
Posted
Helpful if your workplace is getting funny about time off. Mine, fortunately, like yours are very good. Good luck.
ADA
Posted
ADA
Posted