How long does physiotherapy take to work for polymyalgia rheumatica?

When inflammation is controlled, gentle movement may improve shoulder and hip mobility, walking confidence and the ability to manage daily tasks. Strength and balance work can be introduced gradually, especially after a period of reduced activity. A flare, medication change or new morning stiffness can alter what is appropriate that day. Physiotherapy works alongside the treatment plan from your doctor rather than replacing it.

Use short, comfortable movement sessions and pace household tasks with rest breaks. Follow the prescribed exercises without pushing through a flare, and tell the team about difficulty rising from a chair, lifting the arms or climbing steps. Keep appointments with the clinician managing your polymyalgia rheumatica and ask before changing medication. General information about [Physiotherapy](/treatments/physiotherapy-and-rehabilitation/physiotherapy/) can help you prepare for an assessment.

Contact your doctor promptly if shoulder or hip stiffness suddenly worsens, you develop fever or feel unusually unwell, or your function drops after treatment had been helping. Seek urgent care for a new severe headache, scalp tenderness, jaw pain when chewing, or visual symptoms, because these can signal a serious complication associated with the condition.

Which exercises are suitable during a flare? How should activity change after a medication adjustment? What symptoms should prompt an urgent call rather than a routine physiotherapy visit?