polymyalgia rheumatica 2 Page 1

Learn About Polymyalgia Rheumatica - 2

...An EMG test may be performed which uses an electric current that is passed through your muscles. The main treatment relates to pain reduction because this disease usually goes away on its own.

NSAIDs are commonly used to reduce swelling and pain. At low dosages they reduce pain and at higher dosages inflammation. High dosages can cause stomach problems, ulcers, and bleeding so use caution.

Another option is oral cortisone which is a steroid which can reduce inflammation. Cortisone is a natural hormone produced by the body and Corticosteroids are man made and are very similar to cortisone. Prednisone is one of these drugs that can be used but because of the serious side effects it is important to reach a maintenance dose as quickly as possible.

Exercise is also important to the overall treatment. It will help reduce pain and it will stop muscles from becoming weak. There are three different types of exercise you should do - strengthening exercises, range of motion exercises, and endurance exercises.

Apply hot and cold compresses to relax the muscles and reduce pain. You can repeat this treatment as often as necessary. Your heat treatment can be a heating pad, a hot bath or shower, or a hot water bottle. Your cold treatment should be an ice pack.

Lastly be nice to your body. Avoid tasks that are too strenuous for you. After doing heavy work or repetitive tasks rest. Learn to lift correctly and use your back, arms, and legs as a group. Maintain a healthy weight. By loosing those extra pounds you will reduce the stress on your joints.

You can protect your joints by not overworking them and pacing yourself. Relax the muscles, reduce inflammation, and take care of the pain. A better understanding of polymyalgia rheumatica will help you learn to live with it better.

Not all arthritis treatments are the same as you just read about polymyalgia rheumatica. You will see that your doctor might even suggest several for you to try before deciding on the one that is best for you. You will be glad that you knew more about your options.

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