Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR) is an inflammatory condition that often slips under the radar, especially in its early stages.

Affecting mostly older adults, PMR causes widespread muscle pain and stiffness, particularly in the shoulders, hips, and neck.

The first sign is usually a deep ache in both shoulders, often mistaken for strain or arthritis.

This pain can worsen at night, interfering with sleep and making everyday tasks difficult,

like raising your arms or reaching overhead. As the discomfort spreads to the upper arms,

chest, back, and thighs, it becomes increasingly hard to ignore.

What’s more troubling is the intense stiffness, especially in the morning—it can feel like your muscles are completely locked up.

This stiffness might ease slightly with movement, but it always comes back after sitting or resting for too long.

All of this makes early recognition crucial—because there’s something you should definitely know about what happens next…

Over time, PMR can drastically limit your range of motion, especially in your shoulders and hips,

leading to major difficulties with even simple movements like bending over or climbing stairs.

Many people start avoiding activity altogether, which only makes the condition worse.

Although PMR doesn’t typically damage joints like rheumatoid arthritis, it can still affect knees,

wrists, and elbows with enough pain to disrupt daily life.

Other common symptoms include fatigue, low-grade fever, unintentional weight loss, and even mood changes due to ongoing discomfort.

The good news? PMR usually responds very well to treatment—most patients feel relief within days of starting corticosteroids like prednisone.

So if you or someone you know is dealing with unexplained stiffness,

pain, or fatigue, it’s important to speak with a doctor right away.

Early diagnosis can mean faster recovery, a better quality of life—and avoiding months or even years of unnecessary suffering.