Polymyalgia Rheumatica and Exercise: A Single Case Report on One Woman

Abstract

Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR) is a chronic pain and potentially debilitating condition more common in older women than men. This article describes the outcomes that resulted from exercise participation in one woman with PMR. The exercise program involved aerobic, muscle strength/endurance, and range-of-motion training 3 days per week for approximately 15 months. Additionally, health education and resource support were provided. Data indicate that she improved on various fitness measures and in quality of life during the course of the study, and she felt that her activities of daily living were enhanced. Also, she wanted to continue the program. Outcomes from this study should motivate others with PMR to become physically active until more is known about the effects of exercise on PMR.

KEYWORDS:

• polymyalgia
• exercise
• women