Aging comes with its share of aches, but some symptoms shouldn’t be ignored—especially if they involve persistent stiffness and muscle pain. Polymyalgia rheumatica, a condition affecting adults over 50, often starts subtly but can quickly disrupt daily life.
The telltale signs? Bilateral shoulder pain that makes lifting or reaching difficult, and hip stiffness that turns simple movements into challenges. Morning rigidity is another red flag—many sufferers describe feeling “frozen” for the first hour after waking. Unlike typical soreness, this stiffness doesn’t fade quickly, and inactivity often worsens it.
Fatigue, low-grade fever, and a general sense of unwellness may accompany the pain, sometimes leading to weight loss or mood changes. While it’s easy to confuse these symptoms with arthritis or fibromyalgia, polymyalgia rheumatica is distinct in its rapid response to anti-inflammatory treatments.
Early diagnosis is crucial. Left unchecked, the condition can severely limit mobility and independence. If you or someone you know is struggling with unexplained muscle pain and stiffness, a doctor’s visit could provide answers—and relief—sooner than you think.
