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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Diagnosed With Polymyalgia, On Prednisone. Reducing Dosage, Right Arm Weak And Fingers Numb. Any Thoughts ?

I have been diagnosed with Polymyalgia and was on 40 mg of Prednisone, but have been reduced down now to 17.5. I had one setback when reduced from the 40 to 20 then to 10 but am ok on the 17.5. I am due to be reduced again to 15.
I experienced the loss of use of my left leg and my right arm which still remains weak and the thumb and fore finger tingle and go numb. My legs are still weak. My doctor does not know the answer but I worry as I am unable to rely on the arm. I have a stick I use for help for the leg which could be caused by a ripped cuff or labral tear which will need a hip operation to repair, but the arm does worry me.
I was a very active just turned 73 year old, walking on the hill, and doing a large hillside garden till now.
I look forward to any thoughts you may have
AAAAA
Thu, 19 Sep 2013
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Rheumatologist,  's  Response
Hi. Right arm weakness with finger numbness means there is some sort of neurologic compromise to your arm. This may be due to a lesion anywhere from the cord to the extremity nerves. Where exactly we can localise the lesion would depend on a thorough physical examination and nerve conduction study if it is truely neurological. This is the only way I can think based on your complaints. Cervical spondylosis and radiculopathy is a common occurence at this age, and needs to be suspected strongly. I suggest you to consult a neurologist. Thank you.
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Diagnosed With Polymyalgia, On Prednisone. Reducing Dosage, Right Arm Weak And Fingers Numb. Any Thoughts ?

Hi. Right arm weakness with finger numbness means there is some sort of neurologic compromise to your arm. This may be due to a lesion anywhere from the cord to the extremity nerves. Where exactly we can localise the lesion would depend on a thorough physical examination and nerve conduction study if it is truely neurological. This is the only way I can think based on your complaints. Cervical spondylosis and radiculopathy is a common occurence at this age, and needs to be suspected strongly. I suggest you to consult a neurologist. Thank you.