What is the standard treatment for symptoms of polymyalgia rheumatica?

The standard treatment for symptoms of polymyalgia rheumatica is corticosteroids. Patients typically present with symptoms such as widespread muscle pain and stiffness, particularly in the shoulders, neck, and hips, which can significantly impair their daily function. Corticosteroids are effective in quickly reducing inflammation and alleviating these symptoms.

The administration of corticosteroids, such as prednisone, typically leads to rapid improvement in symptoms, often within a few days. This therapeutic approach addresses the underlying inflammatory mechanism of the condition, which is believed to involve autoimmune processes.

While NSAIDs can be used to manage symptoms, they do not provide the same level of rapid relief as corticosteroids and may not adequately control the inflammation associated with polymyalgia rheumatica. Other treatments, such as physical therapy, may be beneficial in maintaining functional mobility but do not serve as the primary method to manage the acute symptoms of this condition. Antibiotics, being ineffective against the inflammatory processes involved in polymyalgia rheumatica, are not applicable in this scenario.