Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) is an inflammatory disorder that causes muscle pain and stiffness, especially in the shoulders and hips. Signs and symptoms of PMR usually begin quickly and are worse in the morning. It is a common cause of widespread aching and stiffness that affects adults over the age of 50. Because PMR does not often cause swollen joints, it may be hard to recognize. It may occur with another health problem, giant cell arteritis. The average age when symptoms start is 70, so people who have PMR may be in their 80s or even older.
Difficulty moving shoulder
Occurs or worsens in the morning or after being inactive for a time
More than 45 minutes
common
Shoulder pain
Both shoulders
At rest
common
Difficulty moving neck
Occurs or worsens in the morning
More than 45 minutes
common
Back neck pain
common
Fatigue
or Depression
or Poor appetite
or Weight loss
or Fever
Less than 38°C (100. 4°F)
common
Difficulty moving hip
Occurs or is worse in the morning
Less than 30 minutes
common
Joint pain
At hip
Knees
At wrist
common
Joint stiffness
Difficulty moving knee, Difficulty moving wrist
Sensitive scalp
or Headache
In the temporal region
or Jaw pain
Weakness of hand
or Numbness or tingling in hand
Palmar aspect, Occurs or worsens at night, Radiates to fingers, Occurs or worsens with activities that involve sustained flexing or extending the wrist
or Pain in arms
Family history of Polymyalgia Rheumatica
Giant cell arteritis
If you have Polymyalgia Rheumatica, then a visit to a rheumatologist is highly recommended.
Contact a
Rheumatologist