Polymyalgia Rheumatica: Managing an Inflammatory Condition
What is Polymyalgia Rheumatica?
Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR) is a chronic inflammatory disorder that predominantly affects adults over the age of 65. It is characterised by widespread aching and stiffness, especially in the shoulders, neck, upper arms, hips, and thighs. One of the key symptoms is morning stiffness lasting longer than 45 minutes, which may severely impact day-to-day functioning.
Symptoms can come on suddenly or build up over time, and are often worse after periods of rest. Many individuals with PMR also report fatigue, low mood, low-grade fever, and unintended weight loss. Women are more commonly affected than men, and people of Northern European descent show a higher prevalence.
How is PMR Diagnosed?
There is no single test that confirms PMR, which is why diagnosis can be challenging. At Epoch Health, our chiropractors and allied health professionals work closely with general practitioners and specialists to ensure that PMR is carefully diagnosed—often by excluding other conditions such as:
Rheumatoid arthritis
Osteoarthritis
Fibromyalgia
Infections
Malignancies
Blood tests that show elevated inflammatory markers, such as ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate) and CRP (C-reactive protein), support the diagnosis but are not definitive on their own.
Treatment and Management
1. Medication
The first line of treatment is usually low-dose corticosteroids, such as prednisone. Most patients experience significant relief within days of starting treatment. However, due to the potential side effects of long-term steroid use—like bone density loss, high blood pressure, and increased infection risk—it’s essential that medication is carefully managed by a GP or rheumatologist.
2. Rehabilitation & Supportive Care at Epoch Health
While medication targets inflammation, ongoing physical support is vital for long-term wellbeing. At Epoch Health, our team of chiropractors, massage therapists, and clinical nutritionists work together to:
Restore joint mobility and reduce stiffness
Improve postural control and balance
Build strength through gentle, tailored exercise programs
Provide nutritional guidance to support immune and bone health
Offer massage to manage secondary muscle tension and stress
We also place a strong emphasis on patient education, helping you understand the condition and build confidence in movement again—without fear of flaring symptoms.
3. Lifestyle & Monitoring
We encourage regular check-ins with your healthcare team to monitor inflammatory markers, medication side effects, and musculoskeletal function. At Epoch Health, we also provide strategies for improving sleep quality, managing stress, and staying socially engaged—all of which support recovery and overall wellbeing.
Conclusion
Polymyalgia Rheumatica can significantly affect your quality of life, but with the right support and care, many people achieve excellent symptom control. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or struggling to manage long-term symptoms, Epoch Health offers multidisciplinary care tailored to your needs.
If you or a loved one is dealing with persistent stiffness or morning pain, get in touch with our team today. We're here to support you every step of the way.