Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) is a chronic condition that causes inflammation, aching pain, and morning stiffness. It affects muscles close to the middle of the body, including the shoulders, hips, and back.

Symptoms

You may suddenly notice symptoms that weren’t there before. Pain and stiffness tend to occur in the upper arms, and you may have trouble raising them above the shoulders. You may also have aching in your joints such as the hands and wrists.

Its cause is not known, but it is more common in people over 50 years old. The average age when symptoms start is 70, so people who have PMR may be in their 80s or even older.

Treatment

You should see a doctor within the next day to discuss your symptoms. PMR can be evaluated with a review of your symptoms and medical history. Your provider may also perform a blood test. Once diagnosed, it can be treated with prescription steroid medication, which can improve symptoms within one week.

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The stories shared below are not written by Buoy employees. Buoy does not endorse any of the information in these stories. Whenever you have questions or concerns about a medical condition, you should always contact your doctor or a healthcare provider.

Jeffrey M. Rothschild, MD, MPH.

Associate Professor of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital

Dr. Rothschild has been a faculty member at Brigham and Women’s Hospital where he is an Associate Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School. He currently practices as a hospitalist at Newton Wellesley Hospital. In 1978, Dr. Rothschild received his MD at the Medical College of Wisconsin and trained in internal medicine followed by a fellowship in critical care medicine. He also received an MP...

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