There are various causes, symptoms, diagnoses, treatments, and prevention methods of polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR), which causes muscle pain and stiffness in the shoulders, neck, hips, and thighs.
Genetic factors may also play a role in predisposing certain individuals to develop PMR. However, there are no specific triggers that initiate the inflammatory process of PMR.
In addition to muscle pain and stiffness in the shoulders, neck, hips, and thighs, PMR also causes fatigue, malaise, low-grade fever, and weight loss. Swelling is typically worse in the morning or after periods of inactivity and improves with movement. Some individuals may also experience inflammation in other parts of their bodies, including the wrists, elbows, and knees.
Clinical evaluation, medical history review, and laboratory tests are used to diagnose PMR. A patient's symptoms are assessed and a physical examination is performed to identify signs of PMR, such as muscle tenderness and limited range of motion. PMR patients may have elevated blood tests for inflammation, including erythrocyte sedimentation rates (ESRs) and C-reactive protein levels (CRPs). To determine the extent of inflammation and rule out other conditions, ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may also be used.
It is the mainstay of PMR treatment to alleviate symptoms, reduce inflammation, and prevent complications. Corticosteroids, such as prednisone, are used to treat PMR. The initial dose is typically higher, followed by a gradual tapering regimen as symptoms improve. The medication suppresses inflammation effectively and provides symptomatic relief. In addition to corticosteroids, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can be used to manage pain and inflammation. Patients who fail to respond adequately to corticosteroid therapy or who wish to minimize long-term steroid use may be prescribed disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs).
PMR has no known prevention strategy at the moment. The risk of inflammatory conditions can be reduced, however, by maintaining a healthy lifestyle, which includes regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and adequate rest. It is also possible to minimize symptoms and prevent complications of PMR by detecting it early and treating it promptly.
