Polymyositis & Dermatomyositis Support Group

Polymyositis (PM) is a type of chronic inflammation of the muscles (inflammatory myopathy) related to dermatomyositis and inclusion body myositis. The inflammation is predominantly of the endomysium in polymyositis, whereas dermatomyositis is characterized by primarily perimysial inflammation.

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wonup 10/19/2012

Hi everyone, well I am seriously thinking about ordering one of those powered lift seats. I can only get out of a chair that is 28 inches ~from floor to seat, mind you, which means my really tall drafting chair at my newly raised desk, or our really tall bed. Also thinking of ordering a car pad for my truck seat. It's a swivel pad that I think will make positioning in the car seat easier. After 11 weeks, still getting heaved out of the wheelchair by my husband, and transferring into the truck seat is kind of a drag.... Has anyone used these two aids?

nanny1611 10/19/2012

While I never got a powered lift chair or a swivel pad for the car, I certainly did use extra cushions on my chairs/sofa, a higher commode with an added seat on top that had arms, along with cushions in the car once I was able to drive again. I have finally graduated to the point of not having so much added height, but I kept everything and have used it occasionally since those early days. These things will give you an added sense of independence, so go for it.

lexisgirl 10/20/2012

I haven't used either of those but I did put risers on my couch and kitchen chair. I also put risers on one of my deck chairs. My office chair could adjust high enough which was great.

I have worked really hard on strengthening my hip flexors and that helped a ton.....well and the big dose of Methotrexate weekly. I would give it a try however, you might notice a big difference in your ability soon. I know you are upping your MTX and doing PT.

wonup 10/21/2012

Thanks you guys. I ordered the swivel seat to get in and out of my bucket seats easier, and the lift seat, too, so I'll let y'all know how that goes. I did take a drafting chair, took the wheels off, raised my desk to work from home. I can get out of that chair by myself. I'm hoping the lift seat gets me back in mostly regular seating. And yep, MTX goes up to 20mg next Sat. I took 15mg last night. Feeling a little muscle weakness. Not bad. Rheumy said to take 2 mg. Folic acid the day I take the MTX, and that has done the trick for side effects.

freelee 10/28/2012

What are risers??? All my furniture is too low and not coping.

lexisgirl 10/28/2012

Risers are blocks you can put under things to make them higher. The make them for beds but I use them for more.

http://www.amazon.com/Slipstick-CB652-Heavy-Duty-Non-Slip-Chocolate/dp/B004X1R0I2/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1351444006&sr=8-5&keywords=bed+and+furniture+risers

freelee 10/28/2012

Oh, this is a great idea. i cannot afford a new chair or bed and have not thought of this! These forums are a great help. Thanks lexisgirl.

lexisgirl 10/29/2012

Sure thing! For the patio chair, I have a wicker chair. My Dad built some huge wooden base for me. It works great but is pretty unsightly.

Another option is to sit on an extra cushion that makes you higher.

lexisgirl 10/29/2012

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