Polymyalgia Rheumatica or PMR is the aching and stiffness of arms, back, neck, and legs. Caucasians over the age of 50 are the primary people affected by this condition. PMR is hard to identify because the symptoms are so similar to other conditions. PMR is often caused in conjunction with giant cell arteritis, a type of vasculitis.

Unlike other rheumatologic conditions, polymyalgia rheumatica can appear suddenly. Individuals may experience difficulty with raising their arms over their shoulders and joint pain in the hand or wrist. Pain is often worse in the morning because of the long period of inactivity.

Symptoms of Polymyalgia Rheumatica

Individuals with polymyalgia rheumatica usually experience symptoms on both sides of their body. These symptoms might include:

• Reduced range of motion in affected areas
• Stiffness that generally occurs in the morning or after periods of inactivity
• Pain and stiffness in your hips, thighs, upper arms, or neck
• Pain and stiffness in your shoulders

Other symptoms you may experience include:

• Tiredness
• Unexplained weight loss
• Appetite loss
• Depression
• Fever, even mild

Diagnosis of Polymyalgia Rheumatica

A comprehensive physical exam and full medical history are required for the diagnosis of PMR. Often the diagnosis is made based on symptoms alone. Blood tests are also ordered to check for elevated inflammatory markers. PMR is often a diagnosis of exclusion meaning other autoimmune disorders must be ruled out as well including lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and myositis.

Risk Factors

Risk factors associated with polymyalgia rheumatica include:

Age: Typically affects older adults over the age of 60
Sex: Women are more likely to develop polymyalgia rheumatica than men.
Race: Caucasians are more likely to develop polymyalgia rheumatica

Treatment for Polymyalgia Rheumatica

Corticosteroids like Prednisone are started immediately which will reduce the pain and stiffness very quickly. Some individuals feel better after one dose while others require more time. The dose of corticosteroids decreases slowly over many months to the lowest amount that keeps the symptoms controlled. Often, other medications that suppress the immune system are started to decrease the amount of steroids required. These medications require the close supervision of a rheumatologist to manage the side effects.

Contact Advanced Rheumatology of Houston to schedule an appointment with Dr. Brionez. Call 281-766-7886 or request an appointment online by filling out our form.

Note: All information provided on this page has been reviewed and approved by Dr. Tamar Brionez. To learn more about Dr. Brionez and her experience, click here.

Note: All information provided on this page has been reviewed and approved by Dr. Tamar Brionez. To learn more about Dr. Brionez and her experience, click here.

Dr. Tamar Brionez

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