Rhizomelic Pseudopolyarthritis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Medically reviewed by Harsha Moole, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 2, 2026.
What kind of doctor treats Rhizomelic Pseudopolyarthritis?
A rheumatologist, a doctor who treats joint and muscle inflammation, or a primary care doctor usually helps manage this condition. It is another name for polymyalgia rheumatica. A physical therapist can help with movement and strength. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
What it is
Rhizomelic pseudopolyarthritis is another name for polymyalgia rheumatica, often shortened to PMR. It is an inflammatory condition that causes pain and stiffness in the shoulders, neck, and hips. Inflammation is the body's swelling and irritation response. It is not a condition present from birth. It almost always starts in people over age 50 and is more common in women.
Symptoms
Symptoms often come on over days or weeks. Common signs include:
Pain and stiffness in the neck, shoulders, and upper arms.
Pain and stiffness in the hips and thighs.
Stiffness that is worst in the morning or after resting.
Tiredness, a low fever, weakness, or weight loss in some people.
Causes and who gets it
The exact cause is not known. It is thought to involve the immune system, the body's defense system, and age and genes may play a role. It is not a simple inherited disease. It almost always occurs in people over 50. Polymyalgia rheumatica sometimes occurs along with giant cell arteritis, a swelling of the blood vessels in the head that can cause headaches and vision problems.
How doctors diagnose it
There is no single test. Diagnosis starts with a medical history and a physical exam. Blood tests that measure inflammation, such as ESR and CRP, support the diagnosis. Doctors also rule out other conditions that can cause similar pain.
Treatment
Low-dose corticosteroid medicine, such as prednisone, prescribed by a doctor, is the main treatment. Corticosteroids are strong medicines that calm inflammation. Symptoms often improve quickly, sometimes within a day or two. Treatment usually continues for a year or longer, and doctors lower the dose slowly. Regular checkups help watch for side effects and for signs of giant cell arteritis.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if you are over 50 and have pain and stiffness in your shoulders, neck, or hips that does not go away. Seek care right away for a new severe headache, pain in the jaw when chewing, or any change in vision, because these can be signs of giant cell arteritis.
How a direct primary care or concierge doctor fits in
A direct primary care doctor is paid with a flat monthly fee instead of using insurance. A concierge doctor works similarly but usually charges more. Either type can manage everyday parts of this condition, such as medicines, referrals, and follow-up visits, and can spend extra time with patients.
Common questions
Is rhizomelic pseudopolyarthritis the same as arthritis?
No. It causes pain and stiffness that can feel like arthritis, but it mainly affects the muscles around the shoulders and hips. It is the same condition as polymyalgia rheumatica.
Can it be cured?
Treatment works well for most people, and the symptoms often go away. The condition usually fades over a year or more. Some people have symptoms come back and need treatment again.
Is it passed down in families?
It is not a simple inherited disease. The exact cause is not known, and genes may play only a small role.
Can children get it?
No. It almost always starts after age 50. A child with joint pain and short arms or legs likely has a different condition, and a doctor can help find the cause.
Sources
- NIH Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center - Polymyalgia rheumatica
- MedlinePlus - Polymyalgia Rheumatica
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
