Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) is a rheumatic disease characterized by muscle pain and stiffness in and around the neck, shoulders and hips. Mild inflammation in the joints and surrounding tissues produces this pain, even though there is usually no sign of arthritis. The term “polymyalgia” means “pain in many muscles.”

PMR may develop as rapidly as overnight or more gradually over a period of weeks. It may occur in individuals who are in otherwise excellent health. PMR is generally a benign (not life-threatening) condition that usually goes away without treatment in several months to years, but it can be resolved more quickly with treatment.

The inflammation that characterizes PMR is the result of white blood cells attacking the synovium (lining of the joints), although it is not known why this occurs. The precise location of the inflammation is disputed, but many researchers and physicians believe it may be in or near the large joints, such as the shoulders and hips. However, other joints, such as those of the hands and feet, are also affected in some patients. This inflammation is not as severe as that caused by inflammatory types of arthritis and is usually not noticeable upon physical examination. Detection is made more difficult because large muscles cover the joints of the shoulders and hips.

PMR does not directly cause any muscle weakness or damage, but the muscles may atrophy (deteriorate) from disuse due to pain. Further, PMR is not itself life–threatening, but dangerous complications may arise because of medications and coexisting conditions.

PMR occurs almost exclusively in individuals over the age of 50, with an average age at onset of 70 years. It is twice as common in women as in men.  Although it can occur in any race or ethnic group, the vast majority of cases occur in whites. PMR affects about 700 per 100,000 Americans (less than 1 percent) over age 50, according to the National Institutes of Health.