Polymyalgia Rheumatica Q & A

Have there been any studies done in the use of Remicade infusions for severe polymyalgia? My mom has the disease and cannot take prednisone due to side effects. She has had a flare up of the polymyalgia, centered in her left hip. The pain and inflammation are quite severe.

My wife has been diagnosed with Polymyalgia and Fibromyalgia (high sed. rate, trigger points, pain in arms, legs, groin & etc.) She has been on prednisone for apprx. 9 mo. and methotrexate for 6 mo, now up to 15 mg. She has never been able to get below 15 mg. prednisone along with MTX without huge pains. Below 12 mg. pred. her sed. rate goes up. Now the bicep area of one of her arms is swollen with red splotches apprx. 5 places that have kinda combined into one red area about the size of a teacup, it looks like it has a deep bleeding in it. She says at times it feels as though the meat is being pulled from the bone. It has a continual dull toothache like ache in it. Is this commom to PMR/FMS? MTX makes her nauseous and weak for about four days, but she continues to take it and hope.

My mom 77 has been diagnosed with polymyalgia, she recently got off of prednisone about 2 months ago. The pain has returned and she has not gone back to the doctor yet as she had problems with the prednisone. I was wondering if she can get a flu shot after being on prednisone.

I just started treatment with methotrexate. Since my first dose, I have been having terrible stomach pain, nausea and diarehha. Will this eventually subside, or this is part of the treatment. I would rather have the pain with my PMR than the stomach ailments that is is causing.

Is it safe to start an exercise program such as water aerobics if you have Polymyalagia Rheumatica?

What is the connection between polymyalgia rheumatica and occasional occurence of gout? Is mild exercise recommended such as walking or swimming?