Polymyalgia rheumatica is an inflammatory condition causing muscle and joint stiffness, mainly in the shoulders and hips. It primarily affects individuals over 50 and is often mistaken for fibromyalgia.
### **Common Symptoms:**
– **Shoulder Pain:** Aching pain on both sides, worsening at night and making daily tasks difficult.
– **Pain in Other Areas:** Discomfort in the neck, buttocks, thighs, hips, and upper arms, making movement challenging.
– **Stiffness:** Especially in the mornings or after inactivity, lasting over an hour.
– **Limited Mobility:** Reduced range of motion, particularly in the shoulders and hips, leading to difficulty with basic movements.
– **Joint Pain:** Some experience stiffness in the knees, elbows, and wrists, though without the joint damage seen in arthritis.
– **Other Symptoms:** Fatigue, mild fever, weight loss, and even depression due to mobility issues.
If you or a loved one experience persistent pain and stiffness, consult a healthcare provider for evaluation.