This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized guidance and treatment.

What causes inflammation in PMR?

PMR is driven by immune-mediated inflammation of the tissues around joints, not by primary damage to the muscles themselves. Blood tests often show elevated markers of inflammation such as erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) or C-reactive protein (CRP), which support the diagnosis together with clinical findings. Controlling that inflammatory response is the main goal of treatment because unchecked inflammation causes the characteristic morning stiffness and functional limitations.

How is pain managed?

The most effective and widely used treatment for PMR pain is low- to moderate-dose oral corticosteroids (for example, prednisone). Many patients notice dramatic improvement within days to a week after starting therapy. Physicians aim to use the lowest effective dose and taper gradually based on symptoms and inflammatory markers. For patients who cannot tolerate steroids or need long-term steroid-sparing strategies, medications such as methotrexate or biologic agents may be considered in consultation with a rheumatologist. Short-term use of acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help some patients, but these are generally less effective than steroids for PMR.

Why does stiffness occur and how is it treated?

Morning stiffness and prolonged stiffness after inactivity are hallmark PMR symptoms and result from periarticular inflammation and fluid accumulation. Alongside medication to reduce inflammation, gentle daily stretching, regular low-impact exercise (walking, swimming, or stationary cycling) and targeted physical therapy can improve mobility and reduce stiffness. Heat packs or warm baths before activity can ease stiffness temporarily. Occupational therapy can help adapt daily activities and recommend assistive devices to conserve energy and protect joints during flare-ups.

How are muscle symptoms addressed?

Although PMR causes muscle pain and limited range of motion, true muscle weakness is uncommon; the discomfort arises from inflammation around muscles and joints. Management focuses on reducing inflammation and maintaining muscle conditioning. A supervised exercise program tailored to the individual helps preserve muscle strength and endurance without provoking flares. Nutritional attention—adequate protein intake and maintaining a healthy weight—supports muscle health while on long-term therapy, especially when corticosteroids raise the risk of muscle wasting and osteoporosis.

How does treatment protect long-term health?

Long-term management of PMR balances symptom control with minimizing medication side effects. Corticosteroids increase risks for osteoporosis, weight gain, diabetes, hypertension and infections; clinicians commonly prescribe bone protection (calcium, vitamin D, and sometimes bisphosphonates) and monitor blood pressure, blood sugar and bone density during treatment. Because PMR can be associated with giant cell arteritis—a potentially sight-threatening condition—clinicians remain vigilant for new headaches, vision changes, jaw pain or scalp tenderness. Routine follow-up with a primary care provider and a rheumatologist helps tailor the tapering schedule and address complications.

Some patients rely on telehealth or online resources to access care; be aware that technical disruptions can occur. For example, online services may temporarily return errors such as “Service Unavailable: ,” so if a telehealth appointment or online record is inaccessible, contact your clinician’s office or local services directly to ensure timely care.

Conclusion

Polymyalgia rheumatica is typically responsive to prompt treatment aimed at reducing inflammation, relieving pain, and restoring mobility. Most people experience meaningful improvement with a carefully monitored steroid regimen, supported when needed by steroid-sparing medications, physical therapy, and preventive measures to protect bone and metabolic health. Close follow-up with a healthcare professional helps ensure safe tapering, early detection of complications, and the best possible long-term health outcomes.