Treating Myositis

Myositis is a medical condition in which the muscles of the body are swollen and inflamed. The inflammation causes weakness and pain in the affected muscles. There is no cure for the condition, but treatment options are available to manage the muscular inflammation. Whether the myositis is chronic or because of an injury, the treatment is the same for the active swelling. Treatments include medical care and lifestyle changes. The response to specific treatments will vary between individuals. Prompt treatment of the condition is important to prevent muscle weakness from progressing.

Instructions

1. Begin a course of steroid therapy. Corticosteroids, like prednisone, decrease the inflammation in the muscles by slowing down the body's immune system. Prescription medication is available in oral and intravenous forms. Corticosteroids are given intravenously first and tapered off orally.

2. Suppress the immune system with medications. When used in conjunction with the corticosteroids, immunosuppressive medications reduce the unpleasant side effects of the steroid therapy by helping to decrease the immune system response. Common immunosuppressive medications used for treating myositis include methotrexate and cyclosporine.

3. Administer intravenous immune globulin to strengthen the immune system, especially if the weakened muscles are causing swallowing problems. The increase in antibodies alters the immune response enough for temporarily stopping the attack on the muscles.

4. Rest the body to allow muscles to recover from the swelling. Decrease activity and increase periods of resting the affected muscles. Motility aids, such as a wheelchair or a cane, help provide support while allowing the muscles to heal.

5. Exercise the affected muscles to maintain flexibility increase strength. See a physical therapist for specific exercises designed to promote a healthy recovery and decrease the chance of further injury. Swimming pool therapy offers exercise and increased range of motion without extra stress placed on joints.

6. Eat a well-balanced diet to decrease the chance of gaining weight while taking corticosteroids. Steroids cause fluid retention and hunger. A healthy diet, full of fresh fruits and vegetables, helps offset the side effects of the corticosteroids.

References

• Myositis Treatment Information
• Myositis Treatments
• Cause of Inflammation

Resources

• Myositis