Polymyalgia rheumatica is a condition that many people may not be familiar with, yet it’s something that affects a significant number of older adults. It’s an inflammatory disorder that causes muscle pain and stiffness, particularly in the shoulders and hips. Symptoms can develop either suddenly or gradually over several days, but in most cases, they tend to impact people over the age of 65. It’s very uncommon in those under 50.
Because it causes widespread muscle pain, polymyalgia rheumatica is often mistaken for fibromyalgia, but the two conditions are quite different when it comes to their underlying causes, symptoms, and treatment methods. Polymyalgia rheumatica is also closely linked to another inflammatory illness called giant cell arteritis, which can cause serious complications if not treated. Recognizing the early signs of polymyalgia rheumatica can help you or a loved one seek timely medical attention and get the care needed to manage the condition effectively.
One of the first and most common signs of polymyalgia rheumatica is shoulder pain. This pain usually shows up in both shoulders and can make simple tasks like getting dressed or reaching for something on a shelf very challenging. For many people, the pain worsens at night, which disrupts sleep. Sometimes the ache extends into the upper arms, and it tends to feel deep and persistent, not something that goes away after a quick stretch or rest. In addition to the shoulders, the pain can spread to other areas, including the neck, buttocks, hips, thighs, and upper arms. These larger muscle groups can become so sore that even sitting down, bending over, or getting up from a chair can be difficult. Pain often intensifies after repetitive movement or periods of inactivity, creating a frustrating cycle where moving hurts, but not moving makes the stiffness worse.
Speaking of stiffness, that’s another major symptom of polymyalgia rheumatica. People often describe waking up in the morning feeling like their muscles are frozen or locked in place. This stiffness can last for an hour or longer and usually eases a bit with gentle movement. However, the condition can still make daily life quite uncomfortable. Even sitting in the same position for a while can trigger more stiffness, and over time, this can really impact a person’s ability to stay mobile and independent.
Without proper treatment, the stiffness can eventually lead to a reduced range of motion. For example, lifting your arms above your head or stretching them out to the side might become difficult or even painful. The hips may also become less mobile, which affects activities like climbing stairs or standing up from low chairs. People may unconsciously limit their movements to avoid pain, but this only leads to further muscle weakening and more loss of flexibility.
While shoulders and hips are the most commonly affected areas, polymyalgia rheumatica can also cause discomfort in the knees, elbows, and wrists. Some people may mistake these symptoms for arthritis, but polymyalgia rheumatica doesn’t usually involve joint swelling or long-term damage the way rheumatoid arthritis does. Tasks that require fine motor skills, such as writing or typing, can become tough because of wrist pain, and knee pain can make walking more difficult.
Often, this joint pain is accompanied by muscle pain, which makes every movement feel like a struggle. Beyond the physical pain and stiffness, there are other symptoms to keep an eye on. People with polymyalgia rheumatica sometimes develop a low-grade fever and feel constantly fatigued, no matter how much rest they get. There may also be a general sense of not feeling well—what doctors refer to as malaise. Appetite can decrease, leading to unintended weight loss.
In some cases, depression sets in, often tied to the frustrations of limited mobility and the inability to enjoy daily life. As we age, our bodies naturally become more prone to various health issues, and polymyalgia rheumatica is one of them. The good news is that it can be managed with proper treatment, especially if caught early. If you or someone you care about starts experiencing persistent stiffness or muscle pain—especially in the shoulders, hips, knees, or elbows—it’s important to consult a healthcare provider. Early diagnosis can make a big difference in preserving mobility, reducing pain, and maintaining a better quality of life.
