Signs of Polymyalgia Rheumatica

The discomfort is usually felt in broad areas rather than one small joint. Raising the arms, turning in bed, standing from a chair or getting dressed may become difficult because stiffness limits movement. Symptoms can appear over a short period and may be accompanied by tiredness, a mild fever, reduced appetite or unplanned weight loss. These features can overlap with other conditions, so the pattern, examination and blood tests help a clinician assess the cause. Morning joint stiffness lasting well beyond the first few movements is worth describing clearly.

Arrange a medical appointment if shoulder or hip aching is new, persistent or interfering with sleep and daily tasks. Record when stiffness starts, which areas are affected, and whether both sides feel involved. Bring a list of medicines and mention headaches, scalp tenderness, jaw discomfort while chewing or any visual change. Gentle activity within comfort can help preserve movement; a clinician may also discuss a structured rehabilitation plan such as Physiotherapy.

Seek urgent medical care for a new severe headache, scalp tenderness, pain in the jaw when chewing, double vision, blurred vision or sudden loss of sight. These symptoms can occur with inflammation of blood vessels alongside polymyalgia rheumatica and need prompt assessment. Seek same-day advice if weakness is rapidly worsening, you cannot move an arm or leg, or you feel acutely unwell.

Could my shoulder and hip stiffness have an inflammatory cause? Which tests or examinations would help distinguish polymyalgia rheumatica from a joint or muscle problem? What symptoms should prompt urgent review? How should I keep moving safely while my diagnosis is being assessed?