What is polymyalgia rheumatica?
Polymyalgia rheumatica is a condition involving chronic, diffuse inflammation of the muscles & joints, resulting in pain and stiffness. It is related to another condition called giant cell arteritis, and it is possible to suffer from both conditions simultaneously. About 15 percent of those with polymyalgia rheumatica will develop giant cell arteritis. The neck, shoulders, low back and hips are usually the most commonly affected areas, and symptoms tend to be worse in the mornings.
Who develops polymyalgia rheumatica?
This condition is usually seen in older populations as the majority of cases are seen in those over the age of 65. It is rarely seen in anyone under the age of 50 and if you are under 50 with PMR like symptoms, you may have another condition known as spondylitis; visit this page for more information on spondylitis: https://spondylitis.org/about-spondylitis/types-of-spondylitis/ Women have also been shown to develop the condition more than men. Caucasians are also more prone to developing this disease than other races.
Where does polymyalgia rheumatica occur?
The shoulders and hips are the most common locations where polymyalgia rheumatica can occur. However, other locations on the body can be impacted. They include:
