Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) is a common condition in the older population. The prevalence in the over 50s is approximately 1 in 133 with a female to male ratio of 2:1.  PMR is an inflammatory condition, however, the exact aetiology is still unknown. Its association with giant cell arteritis (GCA) is well recognised. Half of patients with GCA will have some PMR symptoms and up to one fifth of patients with PMR will have clinical or histological evidence of GCA. If GCA is suspected, then assessment and treatment are urgent.