Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR)

Polymyalgia rheumatica affects the muscles and connective tissue around the shoulders, neck, and hips, mainly in older adults. Research describes inflammation of the synovium and periarticular structures, with systemic IL-6 signaling thought to drive much of the aching, stiffness, and fatigue that mark the condition, though the exact trigger is not fully understood.

It is considered the most common inflammatory rheumatic disease in people over 50, and studies describe incidence estimates that vary widely by region, from roughly 13 per 100,000 in southern Europe to well over 100 per 100,000 in parts of Scandinavia. It is two to three times more common in women, and it sometimes occurs alongside a related blood-vessel inflammation called giant cell arteritis, which is why the two conditions are often studied and monitored together.

Common signs

Aching and marked stiffness in the shoulders, neck, upper arms, hips, and thighs, usually on both sides and typically worst in the morning. The stiffness can make it hard to rise from a chair or lift the arms, and fatigue and a general unwell feeling are common.

This is a plain-language summary for orientation, not a diagnosis. Mechanisms are described as current understanding, not settled fact. Work with your own clinician for your care.