Most people develop polymyalgia rheumatica after age 50. Sometimes this condition occurs with temporal arteritis, a more serious condition that causes inflammation of the lining of the arteries.
Symptoms usually develop quickly and include aching of the shoulders, neck, or hips.
Treatment is usually a low dose of an oral corticosteroid, such as prednisone. Although treatment often lasts two to three years, most people start to feel better within a day or two.
An inflammatory disorder causing muscle pain and stiffness around the shoulders and hips.
Consult a doctor for medical advice
Sources: Mayo Clinic and others.
More than 200,000 US cases per year
Treatable by a medical professional
Requires a medical diagnosis
Lab tests or imaging often required
Chronic: can last for years or be lifelong