For many older adults, waking up in the morning brings more than just stiffness—it brings significant pain and immobility. Rheumatic polymyalgia, or polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR), is a debilitating inflammatory condition primarily affecting people over 50, causing muscle pain and stiffness, especially in the shoulders, neck, and hips.
Steroids like prednisone are often prescribed as first-line treatment. While effective, long-term steroid use carries risks—including weight gain, insomnia, high blood pressure, and bone thinning. This has led many patients and healthcare providers to explore gentler, non-pharmaceutical options. One of the most promising? Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT).
What Is Rheumatic Polymyalgia?
PMR is an autoimmune-driven inflammatory disorder where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues, leading to widespread muscle soreness and stiffness, particularly in the morning or after periods of inactivity. The pain can make everyday tasks—like getting dressed or walking up stairs—feel almost impossible.
While corticosteroids provide rapid relief, they aren’t a sustainable long-term solution for many, especially those with co-existing health issues or concerns about side effects.
How Low-Level Laser Therapy May Help
Photobiomodulation, the scientific term for LLLT, involves the application of specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light to affected tissues. It works by:
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Reducing inflammatory cytokines responsible for tissue pain and swelling
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Stimulating cellular repair and mitochondrial activity
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Improving circulation and oxygenation in muscles and joints
In a recent review published on PubMed Central, LLLT was recognised for its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and tissue-regenerative effects, making it a relevant complementary option for autoimmune and inflammatory musculoskeletal conditions like PMR.
Consistent Relief with the Right Device
The Pulsed Low-Level Laser Therapy device from Pulse Laser Relief delivers targeted photobiomodulation to areas commonly affected by PMR—such as shoulders, hips, and upper arms. With regular use, it may help reduce stiffness, ease morning pain, and restore functional mobility.
One user, Lisa D., shared her experience:
“I have a couple of autoimmune diseases, one of which is rheumatoid arthritis. I find that the laser is brilliant for easing the inflammation and the tendon issues that I get, particularly in my wrists and ankles. I certainly notice when I don't use it. I have found that I need to treat regularly to stay on top of the problem, and if I fail to do this it takes a few decent sessions to settle things down again. I also suffer from shoulder bursitis and I have found the laser helps to ease the pain from this as well.”
Her experience echoes the findings of recent research: LLLT isn’t just a short-term solution—it’s part of a consistent wellness routine for managing chronic inflammatory conditions.
Feel–Felt–Found: For the Skeptical but Hopeful
You may feel uncertain about replacing or reducing your reliance on medications. Others have felt the same way, cautious about trying non-traditional therapies. But they’ve found that integrating laser therapy offers real, noticeable improvements—with fewer side effects and more control over their pain management.
Laser therapy isn’t about replacing medical care—it’s about enhancing it.
A Natural, Non-Invasive Option for Long-Term Relief
With no known side effects, and benefits that support the body’s natural healing processes, LLLT offers a gentle and science-backed alternative for managing rheumatic polymyalgia. For older adults looking to stay active, reduce steroid dependency, and regain control over their mobility, devices like the Pulsed Low-Level Laser Therapy unit provide a safe, accessible pathway forward.
References:
Hossein-Khannazer, N., Kazem Arki, M., Keramatinia, A., & Rezaei-Tavirani, M. (2022). Low-Level Laser Therapy for Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Review of Experimental Approaches. Journal of lasers in medical sciences, 13, e62. https://doi.org/10.34172/jlms.2022.62
