Polymyositis is an uncommon inflammatory condition that causes bilateral muscle weakness.
Polymyositis Treatment
At Vitalis Physiotherapy, our specialised treatment aims to:
What is Polymyositis?
Polymyositis is a condition in a group of diseases named inflammatory myopathies. It is a condition that causes muscles to become irritated and inflamed all over the body. The muscles start to break down and become weak. Polymyositis affects striated muscle fibers and can come on gradually over weeks or months.The condition most commonly affects people ages 31 to 60, rarely occurring in people younger than 18.
What are the causes?
Unfortunately the cause of Polymyositis is not known. Experts think that this condition may be related to, or triggered by a viral infection or an autoimmune reaction.
What are the symptoms of Polymyositis?
Polymyositis often affects muscles closest to the trunk such as hips, shoulders and neck.
- Muscle pain and stiffness
- Muscle weakness, particularly in the abdomen, shoulders, upper arms, and hips
- Joint pain and stiffness
- Trouble catching your breath
- Problems with swallowing
- Irregular heart rhythms, if the heart muscle becomes inflamed (myocarditis)
- Malnutrition
- Weight loss
- Calcium deposits
As this condition progresses it can affected the upper esophagus and chest wall, and may cause the following complications:
- Aspiration pneumonia
- Respiratory failure
- Interstitial lung disease
Treatment for Polymyositis
- Personalised exercise program to maintain strength
- Resistance training
- Patient education
- Aquatic therapy
- TECAR Therapy
- Shockwave Therapy
Other common treatments for this condition involve corticosteroid injections and immunosuppressants.
What can I do at home?
- Protective measures for the skin, such as avoiding heavy sun exposure, wearing sunscreen and protective clothes as sun exposure causes symptoms to flare up.
How to book an appointment?
If you think that you may be suffering from Polymyositis, or you’re looking for a ‘physiotherapist near me’, our team at Vitalis Physiotherapy can assess and diagnose the condition. They will then tailor your treatment plan to aid in your pain relief and recovery.
All you need to do is just give us a call on 0410 559 856 and request an initial appointment. Please let our friendly reception staff know the background and severity of your condition.
You can visit our FAQs for more information about appointments at Vitalis Physiotherapy.
Need Help?
Are you suffering from painful Polymyositis? Contact Vitalis Physiotherapy now to book in your treatment.
Call our friendly team on 0410 559 856. We’d love to help.
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