What is the first-line treatment for Polymyalgia rheumatica?

Polymyalgia rheumatica is primarily characterized by muscle pain and stiffness, particularly in the shoulders and hips, and is often associated with systemic inflammation. The first-line treatment for this condition is corticosteroids.

Corticosteroids are highly effective in rapidly alleviating symptoms of inflammation and pain associated with polymyalgia rheumatica. They work by suppressing the inflammatory response, leading to significant improvement in symptoms within a few days. The initial dose of corticosteroids is typically higher and is then gradually tapered down based on symptom control and patient response.

While NSAIDs can help with pain management, they do not address the underlying inflammation as effectively as corticosteroids do in this particular condition. Antibiotics are not relevant because polymyalgia rheumatica is not caused by an infection. Physical therapy can be beneficial for maintaining joint function and muscle strength, but it is not a primary treatment modality for the inflammatory symptoms that define this condition. Thus, corticosteroids stand out as the most appropriate and effective first-line treatment for managing polymyalgia rheumatica.