Polymyalgia rheumatica

An inflammatory condition causing shoulder and hip girdle pain and stiffness in older adults.

Overview

Polymyalgia rheumatica is an inflammatory condition, mainly in older adults, causing pain and marked stiffness around the shoulders and hips. It typically responds quickly to medical treatment, and recognising it allows prompt referral.

Symptoms

  • Aching and stiffness in the shoulders and hips
  • Marked stiffness, especially in the morning
  • Difficulty raising the arms or rising from a chair
  • Sometimes fatigue or low-grade unwellness

Causes

  • An inflammatory process, cause not fully understood
  • More common over the age of 60
  • Possible genetic and environmental factors

Treatment

  • Prompt medical review and treatment
  • Monitoring for associated conditions
  • Gentle exercise to maintain movement
  • Gradual return to activity as symptoms settle