An inflammatory condition called polymyalgia rheumatica produces stiffness and soreness in the muscles, particularly in the hips and shoulders. Signs of polymyalgia rheumatica may start out quickly and get worse in the morning. Most sufferers of polymyalgia rheumatica are older than 65 and it rarely affects people under 50. This ailment has a link to giant cell arteritis, a different inflammation-related condition. Headaches, blurred vision, jaw pain, and scalp tenderness can all be symptoms of giant cell arteritis. Both circumstances may exist simultaneously.

 

Introduction:

 

Polymyalgia rheumatica is a syndrome that typically affects the neck, shoulders, upper arms, and hips but can affect any body part. The discomfort may come on suddenly or gradually over time. Most Polymyalgia rheumatica sufferers have morning muscular discomfort; however, there have been instances in which the person first experienced pain in the evenings or throughout the day. Polymyalgia rheumatica patients may also develop temporal arteritis (giant cell arteritis), an inflammation of the blood vessels in the face that, if left untreated, can result in blindness. Reduced quality of life and sadness may be brought on by the pain and stiffness.

It is believed that a bacterial or viral infection or some type of trauma caused it, but genetics may also be involved. People of Northern European ancestry are more vulnerable. C-reactive protein (CRP) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) tests can be helpful, although there is no conclusive laboratory test. Typically, corticosteroids given orally are used to treat it. For two to three years, most patients must maintain their corticosteroid therapy. Sometimes, polymyalgia rheumatica resolves on its own after a year or two, although drugs and self-care techniques might hasten the process.

 

Causes:

 

It is unclear what causes polymyalgia rheumatica. The body’s normally disease-fighting immune system’s inflammatory cells and proteins are responsible for pain and stiffness, and this activity appears to be focused in the tissues around the affected joints. In this condition, the body’s white blood cells assault the lining of the joints, resulting in inflammation. The likelihood that someone may develop is also influenced by inherited traits. Viral immune system stimulation in people with predisposed genetic makeup has been the subject of several theories. Diseases that are contagious could be a significant factor. This might be anticipated, for instance, if symptoms appear suddenly.

In addition, there are frequent cycles of new cases in the general population, which suggests a viral link. Studies are conflicting, but a number of relatively common viruses have been named as potential polymyalgia rheumatica causes. The human parvovirus B19, which affects youngsters, the adenovirus, which causes respiratory infections, and the human parainfluenza virus are the viruses that are thought to be implicated. Some patients blame stress for triggering their polymyalgia rheumatica.

 

Signs and Symptoms:

 

The following list of polymyalgia rheumatica symptoms and indicators could apply to both sides of the body:

• Restricted mobility in the afflicted parts
• Your hands, elbows, or knees may hurt or feel stiff.
• Stiffness or discomfort in your shoulders
• Aches or soreness in your hips, thighs, buttocks, upper arms, or neck
• Stiffness, especially in the morning or after being sedentary for a while, in the affected areas.

Additionally, you might experience more widespread signs and symptoms like:

• A persistent illness (malaise) sensation
• Reduced appetite
• Unwanted loss of weight
• Depression
• Slight fever
• Fatigue

 

Diagnosis:

 

There is no specific test to diagnose polymyalgia rheumatica; however, a few tests can help identify the underlying source of the pain. Many other disorders can also cause muscular discomfort and inflammation. The doctor notes any restrictions in shoulder range of motion or edema in the joints of the hands or wrists. A doctor can identify the source of pain and stiffness using the patient’s responses to inquiries, a general physical examination, and the findings of testing.

• A blood test
• Imaging exams

 

Homeopathic Treatment:

 

The effectiveness of homeopathic treatment for polymyalgia rheumatica depends on the patient’s unique set of symptoms. Depending on the symptoms of polymyalgia rheumatica, common medications used to treat this condition include

• Rhus tox
• Bryonia
• Magnesium phosphoricum
• Causticum

You must strike the correct balance between rest and activity if you have polymyalgia rheumatica. Although excessive exercise can exacerbate your symptoms, regular exercise normally helps to reduce pain and stiffness in the shoulders, hips, and thighs. Physiotherapy, which includes shoulder range-of-motion exercises, can aid with pain management and maintain mobility. Exercise that involves lifting weights is beneficial for maintaining bone density and lowering the risk of osteoporosis. Exercise that puts weight on the bones, such as running, walking, tennis, dancing, or lifting weights, is referred to as weight-bearing exercise. This contrasts with swimming, for instance, where the body’s weight is supported by the water.

The best weight-bearing activity for those with polymyalgia rheumatica is typically walking. Any prolonged period of sitting may result in stiffness, which makes tasks like driving more challenging. On a lengthy journey, pause sometimes to stretch your arms, legs, and shoulders. After an exercise session, stretching, a hot bath or shower, or even just sitting up can help to ease soreness and stiffness.

 

Precautions:

 

• Certain chemical substances included in anti-inflammatory meals are believed to lessen joint discomfort and inflammation. Nuts, fruits and vegetables, leafy greens, cold water seafood, tofu, whole grain products, and green tea are foods that have anti-inflammatory qualities.
• Your risk of bone loss, fractures, and bone damage increases if you are receiving steroid treatment for polymyalgia rheumatica. The importance of getting enough calcium and vitamin D cannot be overstated.
• Despite being high in calcium, full-fat dairy foods and cheeses may make certain people’s joints more prone to inflammation.
• The immune system’s responses to inflammation can be helped by omega-3 fatty acids, which can also help prevent polymyalgia rheumatica from recurring. These beneficial fats can be found in fish, walnuts, flax, chia, and leafy greens.
• Natural steroids can aid in the reduction of inflammation, regulation of metabolic rate, and improvement of sleep.