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Polymyalgia Rheumatica

Polymyalgia rheumatica is an inflammation of the muscles which usually affects people older than 50. Polymyalgia rheumatica causes pain and stiffness in the muscles. The most affected muscles are in the neck, shoulder, arms, hips and legs. The symptoms of polymyalgia rheumatica, besides pain and stiffness, may include ache and tenderness in the back, which is usually worse in the morning or after performing strenuous activities, inability to move affected parts of the body and pain in the knees or wrists. You may also experience fever, fatigue, tiredness, night sweats, general weakness, and unexplained weight loss.

Treatment

The treatment for polymyalgia rheumatica typically involves corticosteroid medications. These medications may have side effects which may be dangerous if you have been treated with corticosteroids for a long time. Some of the side effects may cause osteoporosis, diabetes, thinning of the skin, vision impairment and depression. You may also develop high cholesterol and high blood pressure, conditions which increase the risk of heart diseases. You should also include vitamin D and calcium supplements in your treatment to keep your bones healthy. Physical therapy is also an important part of polymyalgia rheumatica treatment.

Natural Remedies

Many natural remedies and supplements have anti-inflammatory properties which can help you deal with the symptoms of polymyalgia rheumatica. An excellent remedy is fish oil because it is rich in omega-3 fatty acids. These fatty acids can reduce inflammation and pain, and improve your ability to move. Evening primrose oil is another excellent natural remedy for polymyalgia rheumatica because it contains gamma linolenic acid which is good for relieving stiffness in the morning.

The pineapple plant enzyme, bromelain, has proved its benefits in treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. This enzyme will effectively reduce inflammation of the muscles in patients with polymyalgia rheumatica. Another remedy is methyl-sulphonyl-methane which can reduce pain in the muscles and joints.

Diet

Proper diet can also improve your condition and help you deal with polymyalgia rheumatica. It is important to eat plenty of fruits and vegetables, especially if they are raw. Raw food will provide vitamins A, B6 and C. You should include cod-liver oil, seafood and whole grains in your diet. You can eat only low-fat meat and diary products. Also make sure you take enough amounts of vitamin D and calcium. You should avoid salt, processed food, refined sugar and food made out of white flour. Some of the herbs, such as licorice root and ginseng can also be useful in treatment of polymyalgia rheumatica.

Inflammatory joint pain from conditions such as polymyalgia rheumatica may be aggravated or suppressed by certain foods. Making the right food choices can help you reduce joint pain and curb serious medication-related side effects, such as osteoporosis. Here are a few diet and supplement considerations for polymyalgia rheumatica.
  • Natural steroids can help fight inflammation, control the body’s metabolism, and also promote good sleep. Supplements of vitamins C and B6 are known to help the body produce and regulate steroid hormones.
  • Other foods, such as curcumin (turmeric) and devil’s claw, or supplements of methyl-sulfonyl-methane, Boswellia (frankincense), and willow bark have shown pain-relieving properties in arthritis and fibromyalgia — conditions with joint pains similar to polymyalgia rheumatica.
  • Although dairy products are rich in calcium, full-fat dairy products and cheeses may increase joint inflammation in some people. In such cases, avoiding dairy foods, consuming dairy sparingly, or opting for low-fat dairy products may help you avoid triggering inflammation.
✓ Fact confirmed: Diet and Supplements for Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR) Judith Frank, MD; 02/19/2020

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