Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR) is an inflammatory condition that often slips under the radar, especially in its early stages. Affecting mostly older adults, PMR causes widespread muscle pain and stiffness, particularly in the shoulders, hips, and neck. The first sign is usually a deep ache in both shoulders, often mistaken for strain or arthritis. This pain can worsen at night, interfering with sleep and making everyday tasks difficult,
like raising your arms or reaching overhead. As the discomfort spreads to the upper arms, chest, back, and thighs, it becomes increasingly hard to ignore. What’s more troubling is the intense stiffness, especially in the morning—it can feel like your muscles are completely locked up. This stiffness might ease slightly with movement, but it always comes back after sitting or resting for too long. All of this makes early recognition crucial—because there’s something you should definitely know about what happens next…