Polymyalgia rheumatica

Polymyalgia rheumatica

Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR), is a relatively common condition which causes stiffness and pain in muscles, tiredness and fatigue, and raised inflammation markers on blood testing. It can start at any age from 50, but mainly affects people over the age of 70. More women than men are affected.

Management of PMR is led by the patient's GP. Standard treatment is with a reducing course of oral steroids (prednisolone) plus medications to prevent the side effects of steroids. Referral to physiotherapy can also be helpful during recovery.

The rheumatology department at UHB does not provide a specific PMR clinic. Patients with PMR can be managed effectively in primary care, with support from the rheumatology service as needed for complex patients. We will still accept referrals for any patients with atypical features of PMR, diagnostic uncertainty, or those with incomplete or non-response to glucocorticoids.

 

Links for professionals:

Advice on local referral policy in Bristol:

https://remedy.bnssgccg.nhs.uk/adults/rheumatology/polymyalgia-rheumatica-pmr/

British Society of Rheumatology Management Guidelines:

https://remedy.bnssgccg.nhs.uk/media/1299/pmr-guidelines.pdf

Links for patients:

https://www.versusarthritis.org/about-arthritis/conditions/polymyalgia-rheumatica-pmr/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIrbWwu4ee5QIVxrTtCh04zgABEAAYASAAEgIEBvD_BwE