Find Relief From the Stiffness and Pain of Polymyalgia Rheumatica
Do you have discomfort and stiffness in the morning? Do you have limited range of motion due to pain in your shoulders? Did these symptoms appear quickly, and are they usually worse when you get up every day?
If so, you may have a condition called polymyalgia rheumatica (pol-e-my-AL-juh rue-MAT-ih-kuh).
This is an inflammatory disorder that primarily affects the shoulders and hips, causing pain and stiffness. It is more commonly seen in those over the age of 65 and rarely affects individuals under the age of 50.
In severe cases, it can make simple tasks such as getting dressed or bathing difficult or even impossible.
What Are the Symptoms of Polymyalgia Rheumatica?
The main symptoms focus on inflammatory pain and stiffness specifically centered around your shoulder and hip joints.
Those with polymyalgia rheumatica experience limited range of motion and stiffness, especially in the morning or after inactivity.
In addition, there are some other, more general symptoms that can include:
- Malaise
- Low fever
- Unintentional weight loss
- Lack of appetite
- Depression
Causes of Polymyalgia Rheumatica
Although the exact cause of polymyalgia rheumatica is not fully understood, studies suggest that there is a significant genetic component to it. Additionally, researchers believe that an environmental trigger, such as a viral infection, may also play a role, although no specific virus has yet been identified as a cause of polymyalgia rheumatica. Ongoing research is being conducted to better understand this condition.
Giant Cell Arteritis and Its Connection to Polymyalgia Rheumatica
Some with polymyalgia rheumatica can also have giant cell arteritis. Symptoms for this condition include:
- Headaches
- Jaw pain
- Vision changes/loss
- Tinnitus
- Scalp Tenderness
If you have polymyalgia rheumatica and are experiencing these symptoms, you should see us as soon as possible. If left untreated, giant cell arteritis can affect blood flow to your eyes and even cause you to lose your sight.
Innovative Treatments for Polymyalgia Rheumatica at RMG Rheumatology
Our patients have successfully returned to their normal level of functioning after receiving treatment for polymyalgia rheumatica. This condition shares some of the same symptoms as fibromyalgia, so it’s vital to see our rheumatologist in Raleigh to get an accurate and timely diagnosis.
Our comprehensive, holistic approach is tailored to each patient’s unique needs.
- Typically, we use oral corticosteroids as the primary treatment and slowly taper the dose.
- In some cases, we may also prescribe methotrexate, which is an immune-suppressing oral medication.
- Additionally, we have found that physical therapy can be highly beneficial for many patients, helping them regain their pre-disease level of functioning.
Ready for Relief? Our Board-Certified Rheumatologist in Raleigh Is Here to Help
Several rheumatic conditions share symptoms, so pinpointing the exact cause is important to ensure effective treatment.
