Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) is a common inflammatory disorder that causes pain, usually in your shoulders and upper body. Inflammation is your body's natural response when it's trying to protect you from harmful germs. Inflammation works by drawing extra blood and white blood cells to whatever part of your body it's trying to defend. This increase of fluid can cause swelling, stiffness, and pain. If you have an inflammation disorder like PMR, your body fights its own joints and tissues, even when germs aren't present. You may be able to treat some of your symptoms of PMR with steroid medicine. You may also be able to manage your symptoms with lifestyle changes, including changes to your diet. A healthy diet is important for everyone, but if you have PMR, the foods you eat may have an impact on your symptoms. That's because some foods are more likely to cause inflammation in your body.