Polymyalgia Rheumatica Nutrition

Polymyalgia rheumatica is a condition in which you develop muscle stiffness and pain. According to the Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, polymyalgia rheumatica-related signs and symptoms usually occur suddenly and may be difficult to treat. This condition may last for several years before spontaneously self-resolving. Nutritional supplements may be a helpful addition to your polymyalgia rheumatica treatment plan, although you should always discuss proper procedures, alternative treatments and potential risks with your family physician beforehand.

Polymyalgia Rheumatica

Polymyalgia rheumatica, notes the American College of Rheumatology, usually affects people over 50 years of age, occurs slightly more often in women than men and may be difficult to differentiate from other diseases, as it causes swollen joints -- a common symptom associated with several conditions. Some of the most commonly experienced symptoms associated with polymyalgia rheumatica include upper arm, neck, buttock and thigh stiffness and aching that is worse upon waking.

Helpful Nutritional Supplements

Polymyalgia rheumatica is an inflammatory condition associated with muscle pain and stiffness. There are many nutritional supplements that may help treat your inflammation, pain and stiffness. According to certified nutritional consultant Phyllis A. Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," helpful supplements for these symptoms include proteolytic enzymes, MSM, SAMe, essential fatty acids, L-tyrosine, vanadyl sulfate, boswellia, rosemary and cayenne. More testing using contemporary scientific research methods may be required to validate the use of these supplements for treating polymyalgia rheumatica.

A Useful Supplement

Rosemary may be a useful supplement in the treatment of your polymyalgia rheumatica. Dr. Sharol Tilgner, a naturopathic physician and author of "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth," states that rosemary helps improve your peripheral circulation, or blood flow, soothes your nervous system and has historically been used as a pain-relieving agent for rheumatic conditions. The leaf of the rosemary plant contains numerous medicinal ingredients and is incorporated into nutritional supplements.

Considerations

Polymyalgia rheumatica is a serious condition that may lead to health complications, including giant cell arteritis and other disorders, notes the National Center for Biotechnology Information. If you are diagnosed with polymyalgia rheumatica, discuss your treatment options -- including complementary alternative treatments -- with your primary care provider. Nutritional supplements should only be used under the guidance and supervision of a qualified health-care practitioner. Some nutritional supplements may cause unwanted health side effects or interfere with other medications you might be taking.