Get relief from neck pain; Encinitas CA specialist offers many treatment options that you can trust

If you literally have a pain in your neck, Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) may be to blame. PMR is characterized by muscle pain and stiffness in areas such as the neck, shoulders, and hips. This inflammatory condition can be so debilitating that it affects your ability to do everyday tasks, such as bathing and getting dressed, and patients with PMR are vulnerable to giant cell arteritis. Neck pain relief in Encinitas CA at Seaside Rheumatology and Wellness Center frees you from the stiffness, and feverishness and malaise that often accompanies this disease, improving your quality of life.

The power of effective, timely treatment

PMR is also associated with another inflammatory disease: giant cell arteritis. When the arteries on either side of your head are affected by this condition, you may experience headaches, scalp and jaw pain, and blurry or double vision. Since complications include stroke and blindness, it’s important for patients with PMR to watch for these symptoms, and for Board-certified Rheumatologist Dr. Peter Lloyd to get the condition under control quickly.

To get relief and avoid potentially dangerous complications, Dr. Lloyd may prescribe medications such as:

• Corticosteroids – Patients start with a low daily dose of oral steroids like prednisone. The dose may be increased as needed until symptoms subside. After around two to four weeks (depending on symptoms and blood test results), the dose may be gradually tapered. The goal is to sustain pain relief with the lowest possible dose, while avoiding relapses or flares.
• Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs – NSAIDs such as aspirin and ibuprofen may be taken daily and are often coupled with other medications to help reduce pain and stiffness. Dr. Lloyd will discuss potential side effects with you, as long-term use of NSAIDs is associated with problems like stomach and kidney damage.
• Calcium and Vitamin D supplements – When taken daily, this mineral/vitamin combo can prevent potential bone loss related to steroid use.
• Methotrexate (Trexall®) – Some patients may benefit from this immune-suppressing oral medication, paired with corticosteroids. Methotrexate can be useful earlier or later in treatment, particularly if patients haven’t responded to steroids, if there isn’t a relapse in pain and other symptoms.
• Physical therapy – Dr. Lloyd has helped many people with PMR return to the activities that they love; however, if you’re among those patients who haven’t been active for a long stretch of time, you may benefit from therapeutic exercises.

Lifestyle and home modifications can make a tremendous difference as you get back on the path of wellness; for instance, maintaining a healthy diet and weight helps to manage both pain and side effects from steroids, and strengthens bones and muscles. Assistive devices, such as shower bars, help patients perform tasks easily and painlessly. Schedule an evaluation with Dr. Lloyd today. Call Seaside Rheumatology and Wellness Center at 760-509-2429.

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