Myositis is a rare autoimmune disease that causes your immune system to attack your own muscles. This leads to chronic muscle inflammation, weakness, and pain. Over time, the inflammation can make simple movements—like walking, climbing stairs, or lifting your arms—much harder.
The term “myositis” literally means “muscle inflammation.” It’s one of several inflammatory myopathies, conditions that affect the muscles that help you move. Myositis can develop gradually or suddenly, and symptoms can vary from mild to severe. While there’s no cure, proper treatment can put the disease into remission—meaning inflammation and symptoms improve or even disappear for a period of time.
Myositis affects muscles throughout the body, but symptoms can differ depending on the type.
Common signs include:
If you suddenly experience muscle weakness, difficulty swallowing, or shortness of breath, contact your doctor or go to the emergency room immediately.
There are several main types of myositis, each with unique features:
Affects multiple muscles—usually those near the center of your body (hips, thighs, shoulders). It develops gradually, causing progressive weakness that may make it hard to climb stairs or lift objects.
Affects both muscles and skin, causing rashes on the face, knuckles, chest, or back. It can appear in adults or children and sometimes increases the risk of certain cancers.
It usually affects people over 50 and progresses slowly. It causes weakness in the hands and lower legs, making it difficult to grip objects, walk, or stand. Swallowing difficulties are also common.
Myositis is an autoimmune condition, meaning the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy muscle tissue. The exact cause is not fully understood, but it may be triggered by:
Diagnosing myositis can be challenging because it’s rare and its symptoms overlap with other conditions. At California Sports and Rehab, Dr. Hakimian uses advanced diagnostic tools to evaluate muscle and nerve function.
Diagnostic tests may include:
💡 EMG and NCV testing performed by Dr. Hakimian can help distinguish myositis from other neuromuscular conditions such as neuropathy or myasthenia gravis.
There’s no permanent cure for myositis, but with proper care, most patients can manage their symptoms and lead active lives.
Treatment options may include:
With ongoing monitoring and adjustments, many patients achieve remission and maintain independence.
Living with myositis requires balance—between rest, treatment, and physical activity. Here are some helpful tips:
At California Sports and Rehab, Dr. Hakimian focuses on long-term management, education, and improving each patient’s quality of life.
There’s no cure yet, but treatment can control inflammation and put the disease into remission. Many patients experience significant improvement.
Diagnosis requires specialized testing, including EMG and possibly muscle biopsy. If you have persistent weakness or fatigue, a nerve specialist like Dr. Hakimian can evaluate you.
Yes — light stretching and low-impact exercises under medical supervision can help strengthen muscles and prevent stiffness.
Myositis is not contagious. Some people may have a genetic predisposition, but most cases occur spontaneously.
See a doctor if you have unexplained weakness, pain, or trouble moving. Seek immediate medical attention if you can’t swallow or breathe properly.
If you notice new or worsening muscle weakness, or if daily tasks are becoming difficult, don’t wait.
Dr. Hakimian at California Sports and Rehab offers expert evaluation and testing — including EMG and nerve conduction studies — to help diagnose and manage myositis and other muscle disorders early and effectively.
Call 310-652-6060 or Request an Appointment Online today to schedule your evaluation.
We accept most insurances, Private, Worker’s Comp and Personal Injury.
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