What is Polymyalgia Rheumatica
Polymyalgia Rheumatica (sometimes referred to as PMR) is a common cause of widespread aching and stiffness that affects adults over the age of 50, especially Caucasians. Because polymyalgia rheumatica does not often cause swollen joints, it may be hard to recognize. An inflammatory disorder causing muscle pain and stiffness around the shoulders and hips.
There are more than 200,000 US cases per year and requires a medical diagnosis from a medical professional with lab tests or imaging.
PMR can last for years or be lifelong and most people develop polymyalgia rheumatica after age 50. Sometimes this condition occurs with temporal arteritis, a more serious condition that causes inflammation of the lining of the arteries.
Treatment is usually a low dose of an oral corticosteroid, such as prednisone. Although treatment often lasts two to three years, most people start to feel better within a day or two.
Symptoms usually develop quickly and include aching of the shoulders, neck, or hips.
Symptoms
Symptoms usually develop quickly and include aching of the shoulders, neck, or hips
Pain areas in the shoulder, neck, or pelvic girdle.
Joint stiffness, tenderness, or fatigue.
Consult a doctor for medical advice.
Treatments
Treatment consists of steroids
Treatment is usually a low dose of an oral corticosteroid, such as prednisone. Although treatment often lasts two to three years, most people start to feel better within a day or two.
Steroids to modifies or simulate hormone effects, often to reduce inflammation or for tissue growth and repair.
Common drugs
Prednisone
It can treat many diseases and conditions, especially those associated with inflammation.
Specialists
Rheumatologist
Specializes in arthritis and other rheumatic diseases.
Primary care provider (PCP)
Prevents, diagnoses, and treats diseases.
