Definitions

Polymyalgia rheumatica


Overview

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

Symptoms usually come on quickly and affect the shoulders, neck, and hips.

Treatments

Treatment is usually a low dose of an oral corticosteroid, such as prednisone. Most people feel better within a day or two with treatment.