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What Causes Pain In The Neck And Left Hand When Diagnosed With Polymyalgia Rheumatica?

Posted on Fri, 13 Oct 2017

Question: I was diagnosed with polymyalgia rheumatica many years ago. I have been fine for 2 years. Lately I have EXTREMELY painful left upper arm/neck and my left hand is so painful that I can not even grasp a pencil. The left side of my buttocks is also painful. Do you think there may be something wrong with the right side of my brain? I also have occasional FUO (fever of unknown origin).

Answered by Dr. Dr. Muhammad Sareer Khalil (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Unlikely to be a brain lesion

Detailed Answer:
Hello and welcome

I appreciate your concern

Based on your description and history, the only way to rule out a central nervous system lesion in the brain is via imaging studies like MRI and CT brain. If there is no focal neurological deficit on the contralateral side then it's unlikely to be the cause. The pain you described appears to be neuropathic. Pregabalin or gabapentin can be advised to look for improvement. The dose can be gradually built up for adequate pain control.

Please consult your doctor before taking any medication

Let me know if you have any query

Wishing you best of health

Thanks

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad