Polymyalagia Rheumatica

Hi, I have just acquired a patient with PMR affecting her neck/shoulder girdle quite badly and starting to affect her hip regions.

She is apparently unfortunately unable to tolerate steroids. She uses heat packs whish give short term comfort, but is increasingly bothered by stiffness and pain, especially on rising. Does anybody have any bright ideas of any modalities which may help?

She is in her 90's but has always had a very good erect posture, walks well, and has no other arthritis except for some minor wasting in her hands. She did not think much of my suggestion of hydrotherapy as she doesn't like pools and feels it would be too much trouble to travel to one as she has no transport.

Any suggestions gratefully received.

J

[footloose]

sorry, but whats the expansion for PMR???

PMR = Polymyalgia Rheumatica as was (mis-spelled! ) in the title of the thread!

Thanks everybody for your help! The lady is responding nicely to good-fashioned Ultrasound, massage and exercises. :rolleyes

[sdkashif]

Have a look over these information resources.

Polymyalgia Rheumatica-Clinical and cost effectiveness of physiotherapy in the management of elderly people with common rheumatological conditions.


The clinical and cost effectiveness of physiotherapy in the management of older people with common rheumatological conditions- THE CHARTERED SOCIETY OF PHYSIOTHERAPY

[arkesh_physio]

hi,
pls see to it that,postural guidelines,modification of ADL to conserve energy are taught & supply of splints,spl aids is imp.
taking care of these small things does reduce the pain & inflammn to great extent
regards
ark..