Classic polymyalgia rheumatica primarily affects the shoulder and hip girdles. It does not usually affect the lower legs.

Symptoms of polymyalgia include:

  • pain in the shoulders, hips, and neck
  • stiffness, particularly in the morning and lasting longer than 45 minutes
  • inflammation

You may also feel restriction in the movement of the legs and thighs due to the pain and stiffness. It can develop suddenly or quickly, and last for a few days or weeks, or occur after periods of inactivity.

Polymyalgia rheumatica is a rheumatic disorder that involves symptoms such as pain and stiffness in the body. It typically affects individuals over 50 and links to the body’s elevated inflammation, as measured by the erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels.

It can cause a significant decrease in quality of life, and can cause further issues such as:

  • trouble sleeping due to the pain and stiffness
  • issues with daily routine, such as getting out of a chair, putting on socks and shoes, brushing hair, taking a shower, or driving
  • excessive fatigue

Pain in the legs can stem from inflammation in the hip joints.

Treatment for polymyalgia rheumatica stiffness and pain includes: