Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR) Treatment in Manhasset, NY
Serving Nassau County & Queens
What Is Polymyalgia Rheumatica?
Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR) is an inflammatory condition that causes muscle pain and stiffness, primarily affecting the shoulders, neck, and hips.
It most commonly occurs in adults over age 50 and can significantly impact mobility and quality of life. PMR is closely related to Giant Cell Arteritis (GCA), a form of vasculitis that requires urgent evaluation.
With proper treatment, most patients experience rapid improvement.
Symptoms of Polymyalgia Rheumatica
Common symptoms include:
- Shoulder stiffness, especially in the morning
- Hip and thigh stiffness
- Neck discomfort
- Difficulty getting out of bed or rising from a chair
- Fatigue
- Low-grade fever
- Generalized achiness
Symptoms are typically worse in the morning and improve throughout the day.
The Connection Between PMR and Giant Cell Arteritis
PMR and Giant Cell Arteritis (GCA) are closely related inflammatory conditions.
Because GCA can affect vision, patients with PMR should report any new headaches, jaw pain, or vision changes immediately.
How Is PMR Diagnosed?
Diagnosis includes:
- Detailed medical history and physical examination
- Blood tests measuring inflammatory markers
- Evaluation to rule out other causes of muscle pain
- Monitoring for symptoms of associated vasculitis
A prompt and accurate diagnosis allows treatment to begin quickly.
Treatment for Polymyalgia Rheumatica
PMR typically responds rapidly to low-to-moderate dose corticosteroids.
Treatment may include:
- Gradual steroid taper under careful supervision
- Monitoring blood tests
- Bone protection strategies if long-term steroids are required
- Close follow-up to prevent relapse
Our goal is to control inflammation while minimizing medication side effects.
When Should You See a Rheumatologist?
You should seek evaluation if you:
- Are over age 50 with new persistent shoulder or hip stiffness
- Have elevated inflammatory blood tests
- Experience morning stiffness lasting more than 30 minutes
- Have PMR symptoms along with new headaches or vision changes
Early treatment improves comfort and prevents complications.
Personalized Rheumatology Care
At Manhasset Rheumatology, we provide evaluation and treatment for PMR for patients throughout Nassau County and Queens.
As a small, two-physician private practice, patients receive direct, one-on-one care with continuity at every visit.
Both physicians are consultants at St. Francis Hospital and participate in clinical research and trials, allowing access to advanced treatment strategies when needed.
Schedule an Appointment
If you are experiencing symptoms of polymyalgia rheumatica, contact our office in Manhasset to schedule an evaluation.
📞 516-365-1700
📧 manhassetrheum@gmail.com
We proudly serve patients in Nassau County and Queens.
Manhasset Rheumatology 