If untreated, stiffness can limit movement. Shoulder pain may make raising your arms difficult, while reduced hip mobility can hinder standing up or climbing stairs. To avoid pain, many limit movement, leading to weaker muscles and further loss of flexibility.

Knee, Elbow, and Wrist Pain

While hip and shoulder pain are most common, some also experience stiffness in the knees, elbows, and wrists. Unlike rheumatoid arthritis, polymyalgia rheumatica doesn’t usually cause joint damage or swelling. However, wrist pain can make writing or typing difficult, and severe knee pain can hinder walking. Worse, the joint pain is often paired with muscle pain, making movement even harder.

Additional Symptoms of Polymyalgia Rheumatica

Although polymyalgia rheumatica is mainly associated with pain and stiffness, there are several other signs to be aware of. The inflammation can sometimes cause a mild fever, and many people experience persistent fatigue. Some individuals describe a general sense of unwellness or malaise, even without a clear cause. Loss of appetite can also lead to unintended weight loss. Additionally, mobility challenges may contribute to feelings of depression in some cases.

The Bottom Line

As we age, conditions like polymyalgia rheumatica can cause stiffness and pain, limiting movement and daily tasks. If you notice shoulder, hip, knee, or elbow pain, consult a doctor for evaluation.