Which treatment is commonly recommended for polymyalgia rheumatica?

Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) is an inflammatory condition that primarily affects older adults, manifesting as muscle pain and stiffness, particularly in the neck, shoulders, and hips. The cornerstone of treatment for PMR is the use of corticosteroids, with low-dose prednisone being the standard first-line therapy. This is due to prednisone's potent anti-inflammatory effects that can rapidly alleviate symptoms and improve the quality of life for individuals suffering from this condition.

Starting with a low dose of prednisone is effective in managing the symptoms of PMR, and many patients experience significant relief within a few days. Since PMR is associated with systemic inflammation, the use of prednisone targets the underlying process rather than just treating symptoms, setting it apart from other potential treatments.

While physical therapy, NSAIDs, and opioid medications like morphine may play roles in the management of other conditions or in certain circumstances, they do not provide the same level of targeted relief for the specific inflammatory process present in polymyalgia rheumatica. Physical therapy may be beneficial for maintaining mobility but is not a primary treatment. NSAIDs can provide some pain relief but often do not address the underlying inflammation as effectively as corticosteroids. Morphine is not appropriate in this context, as it is primarily