Polymyalgia is a pain

October 27, 2010 By

DEAR DR. GOTT: My doctor diagnosed me with polymyalgia. I have pain in the back of my head, shoulders and lower back that usually occurs at night and goes away when I get up in the morning. I’m 78 years old, in generally good health with no diabetes, heart or other problems. I go to physical therapy three times a week for my back problem and have traction treatment as well, which seems to be working. Is there any help for me?

DEAR READER: Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) is an inflammatory disorder that results in widespread muscle aches, pains and stiffness of the hips, shoulders, thighs, upper arms and neck, fatigue, anemia, malaise and unintentional weight loss. Symptoms experienced are the result of mild inflammation of the joints and surrounding tissue. Stiffness can worsen following periods of inactivity, such as after a night’s sleep or sitting for too long.
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Differentiating between fibromyalgia and polymyalgia

February 18, 2010 By

DEAR DR. GOTT: I recently read in one of your newsletters about fibromyalgia. I have polymyalgia. Could you please explain the difference between the two and what medication I should be using? I would appreciate hearing from you.
DEAR READER: Fibromyalgia is a disorder characterized by widespread pain of muscles and ligaments, coupled with a painful response to even gentle touch. The symptoms may wax and wane and can be vague. Women are more prone to the disorder and typically experience pain throughout the entire body. Men, on the other hand, often report facial pain or discomfort in a specific part of the body. This is often a diagnosis of exclusion, because so many symptoms mimic other disorders, making it difficult for a physician to diagnose. [Read more...]

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