Causes, Incidence and Risk Factors Polymyalgia rheumatica is a disorder that almost always occurs in persons over 50 years old. The cause is unknown. Although symptoms are located predominantly in the muscles and there are no outward signs of arthritis , in some cases there is evidence of inflammatory arthritis. Symptoms begin abruptly. Signs of giant cell arteritis may also be present.
Blood tests are nonspecific.
Hemoglobin or hematocrit may be normal or low. The goal of treatment is relief of discomfort and stiffness. The disorder generally runs its course without treatment. Corticosteroids, such as Prednisone, are prescribed in low doses. Polymyalgia rheumatica usually resolves by itself, even when not treated, in 1 to 4 years.