Polymyalgia rheumatica: shoulder and hip pain after 50 — treatment in Chisinau
Polymyalgia rheumatica is an inflammatory disease that occurs almost exclusively after the age of 50. Patients wake up with shoulders and hips so stiff that they cannot get out of bed or comb their hair. It usually responds very well to treatment — sometimes within a few days.
Polymyalgia rheumatica symptoms
The disease often starts abruptly, over a few days or weeks: pain and stiffness in both shoulders, the neck and the hips. In the morning, movements are very difficult — lifting the arms, getting dressed, getting out of bed.
There may be fatigue, loss of appetite, weight loss and a low-grade fever. Muscle strength is not reduced — movement is limited by pain.
- pain in both shoulders and in the hips
- morning stiffness lasting more than 45 minutes
- difficulty getting dressed or getting out of bed
- fatigue, weight loss
Diagnosis and the link with temporal arteritis
The diagnosis is based on symptoms, inflammation tests (ESR, C-reactive protein) and ultrasound of the shoulders and hips. The doctor rules out other diseases with similar symptoms, such as late-onset rheumatoid arthritis.
Important: some patients also develop giant cell arteritis — a new headache, pain in the temples or when chewing, or vision problems. These require urgent medical attention.
Polymyalgia rheumatica treatment
Low-dose corticosteroids usually bring a dramatic improvement within a few days. The dose is then tapered very slowly, over 1–2 years, depending on how you respond and on your test results.
Because the treatment lasts a long time, the doctor also looks after your bones (calcium, vitamin D, sometimes osteoporosis treatment), blood sugar and blood pressure.
Recovery and everyday life
Gentle daily movement and shoulder exercises help you regain mobility once the inflammation subsides. Do not stop corticosteroids suddenly — stopping abruptly can be dangerous.
Most patients recover completely after finishing treatment; in some the disease comes back, which is why regular check-ups are important.
When to see a rheumatologist
- you are over 50 and both shoulders suddenly hurt
- in the morning you cannot raise your arms or get out of bed
- your ESR or C-reactive protein is raised
- you also have a new headache or vision problems (urgent!)
- you have lost weight and feel tired for no reason
How Laromed Clinic helps
The rheumatologist listens, examines you, reviews the tests you already have and explains in plain words what is happening and what comes next.
- consultation at the clinic in Chisinau or online by video
- joint ultrasound and intra-articular injections
- a written treatment plan and long-term follow-up
- coordination with physiotherapy and other specialties
FAQ: polymyalgia rheumatica
How long does treatment last?
Usually 1–2 years, with the corticosteroid dose reduced gradually. The pace is set by your doctor based on your symptoms and test results.
Are corticosteroids dangerous?
At the low doses used and with the right protection (bones, blood sugar, blood pressure), the benefit far outweighs the risks. Regular check-ups make it possible to use the lowest effective dose.
Can it be cured?
Yes, in most patients the disease goes away after treatment. Relapses sometimes occur, and they respond just as well to treatment.
Medically reviewed: Dr. Larisa Rotaru, rheumatologist, MD PhD. The information on this page is general and does not replace a medical consultation.
