What should you know about PMR disease, polymyalgia rheumatica?

PMR often causes pronounced stiffness after rest, particularly in the morning, with difficulty raising the arms, turning in bed, standing, or getting dressed. Some people also feel tired, lose appetite, or have a mild fever. These symptoms can overlap with other conditions, so diagnosis is based on the pattern, examination, and blood tests rather than one symptom alone.

A clinician may ask about headache, scalp tenderness, jaw pain while chewing, or visual changes because PMR can occur alongside inflammation affecting larger blood vessels. Treatment usually needs medical supervision and review over time; medicines may be adjusted gradually rather than stopped suddenly.

Arrange an assessment if new shoulder or hip stiffness is limiting ordinary activities. Keep a simple record of morning stiffness, pain, energy, temperature, and any medicine effects. Discuss bone health, vaccinations, stomach protection, and monitoring if steroid treatment is prescribed. Gentle movement and a tailored [Physiotherapy](/treatments/physiotherapy-and-rehabilitation/physiotherapy/) plan can help preserve strength and function.

Related symptom pages include [Morning Joint Stiffness](/symptoms/morning-joint-stiffness/) and [Muscle Weakness](/symptoms/muscle-weakness/).

Seek urgent medical help for a new severe headache, scalp tenderness, jaw pain when chewing, double vision, visual loss, or unusual weakness. These may indicate blood-vessel inflammation requiring prompt treatment. Contact your clinician if symptoms return during treatment, side effects become troublesome, or fever and general illness develop.

What findings support PMR in my case? Which blood tests will be monitored? How will treatment be reduced safely? What symptoms suggest blood-vessel inflammation? Which exercises and daily activities are appropriate for me?