Polymyalgia Rheumatica in Dover - Rheumatology Center of Delaware

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About Polymyalgia Rheumatica

Understanding Polymyalgia Rheumatica: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment, and Management

Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) is an inflammatory disorder that primarily affects older adults. It causes muscle pain and stiffness, particularly in the upper arms, neck, and shoulders. Often mistaken for other inflammatory arthritis conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, PMR requires careful diagnosis. This article explores its symptoms, causes, treatments, and management, with a focus on common medications and physical therapy interventions.

What is Polymyalgia Rheumatica?

Polymyalgia rheumatica is an inflammatory condition that causes muscle pain, stiffness, and fatigue, particularly in the upper body. The disorder often presents as severe pain in the shoulders and hips, typically worse in the morning. It is most common in older adults, usually affecting those aged 50 and above.

Rheumatoid Arthritis vs Polymyalgia Rheumatica

While both rheumatoid arthritis and polymyalgia rheumatica cause joint pain and stiffness, they differ in several key ways. Rheumatoid arthritis primarily affects the joints, leading to inflammation, swelling, and deformities. On the other hand, polymyalgia rheumatica targets the muscles, causing pain and stiffness without significant joint damage.

Common Symptoms of Polymyalgia Rheumatica

The treatment for polymyalgia rheumatica typically involves the use of corticosteroids, such as prednisone, to reduce inflammation and relieve symptoms. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may also be used for pain relief, although they are less effective than corticosteroids for managing PMR.

Common Treatments for Polymyalgia Rheumatica

At the Rheumatology Center of Delaware, we tailor treatment plans to each patient’s unique needs, focusing on:

Corticosteroids

Corticosteroids, such as prednisone, are commonly prescribed to reduce inflammation and relieve the symptoms of polymyalgia rheumatica. These medications work quickly to control inflammation, helping to alleviate pain, stiffness, and swelling in affected areas, such as the shoulders, neck, and hips. Typically effective in managing the condition, they may require dosage adjustments over time to balance symptom relief while minimizing potential side effects.

NSAIDs

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are often used to provide pain relief for polymyalgia rheumatica, although they are generally less effective than corticosteroids in reducing inflammation. NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen or naproxen, can help manage mild to moderate pain and discomfort, but they do not address the underlying inflammation as effectively as corticosteroids. These medications can be used alongside corticosteroids or when lower levels of pain management are needed.

Monitoring and adjusting medication

Monitoring and adjusting medication is essential in managing polymyalgia rheumatica and preventing flare-ups. Regular follow-up appointments with a healthcare provider allow for close observation of symptom changes and medication effectiveness. Dosages of corticosteroids may be adjusted over time to find the optimal balance, minimizing side effects while maintaining symptom control. This ongoing management helps ensure long-term relief and reduces the risk of flare-ups or complications.

Physical therapy

Physical therapy is often recommended for polymyalgia rheumatica to improve flexibility and reduce stiffness. Through targeted exercises, patients can restore joint mobility, strengthen muscles around affected areas, and alleviate pain. Additionally, therapy helps maintain functional movement, improve posture, and enhance overall quality of life. When integrated into a treatment plan, it complements medications and provides long-term benefits for managing symptoms and preventing further joint limitations.

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