What condition is associated with muscle pain and stiffness?

Muscle pain and stiffness are hallmark features of Polymyalgia Rheumatica, a condition often seen in older adults. It is characterized by bilateral pain and stiffness in the shoulders, neck, and hip areas, typically more pronounced in the morning or after periods of inactivity. This inflammatory condition is also associated with elevated inflammatory markers, which can aid in diagnosis.

While fibromyalgia also presents with widespread pain and can cause stiffness, it includes additional symptoms like fatigue and sleep disturbances, and it does not have the same inflammatory characteristics as Polymyalgia Rheumatica. Arthritis can lead to joint pain and inflammation, but it primarily affects the joints rather than causing the specific muscle pain and stiffness seen in Polymyalgia Rheumatica. A cervical strain relates to injury or overuse of the neck muscles, which could cause localized muscle pain but does not encompass the systemic nature of the stiffness and pain associated with Polymyalgia Rheumatica.

Therefore, the features and clinical presentation of Polymyalgia Rheumatica directly align with the symptoms of muscle pain and stiffness, making it the most appropriate answer.