Understanding Polymyalgia Rheumatica: Symptoms, Risks, and Care

Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) is a chronic inflammatory disorder that causes muscle pain and stiffness, especially in the shoulders and hips. According to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS), PMR primarily affects people over age 50 and is more common in women. Early recognition of symptoms is important because PMR can be mistaken for other conditions such as arthritis or fibromyalgia. This article explains how to learn the signs of polymyalgia rheumatica, what causes it, and how it is typically managed.

Learn the Signs of Polymyalgia Rheumatica

1. Muscle Pain and Stiffness

Usually felt in the shoulders, neck, and hips.
Stiffness is most noticeable in the morning or after periods of inactivity.

2. Limited Range of Motion

Difficulty lifting arms above the head or standing after sitting.
Movements may feel restricted and painful.

3. General Symptoms

Fatigue, low-grade fever, and unintended weight loss.
Sometimes accompanied by a feeling of overall weakness.

4. Associated Conditions

Some patients with PMR also develop giant cell arteritis (GCA), a condition affecting blood vessels in the head and neck that may cause headaches, scalp tenderness, or vision changes.

Why It Could Be More Than Age

Immune System Involvement: PMR is classified as an autoimmune-related condition, where the body’s immune response drives inflammation.
Genetics: Certain genetic markers increase susceptibility.
Inflammation Markers: Blood tests often reveal elevated ESR or CRP, showing that PMR is tied to systemic inflammation rather than aging alone.

Risk Factors

Age: Most common in people over 50.
Gender: Women are more likely to be affected than men.
Ethnicity: More frequent among people of Northern European descent.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Blood Tests: Elevated markers of inflammation such as ESR and CRP.
Physical Exam: Evaluating range of motion and tenderness.
Treatment: Low-dose corticosteroids are the standard treatment, often leading to quick improvement.
Monitoring: Ongoing follow-up is needed to adjust medication and watch for related conditions like GCA.

Conclusion

Recognizing symptoms early helps patients learn the signs of polymyalgia rheumatica and seek medical attention before complications arise. With appropriate treatment, many individuals experience relief and regain mobility, though long-term monitoring is usually required.