Update....8 mg still kept me stiff and in pain. My rheumatologist then instructed me to go on 15 mg. Yikes! While some of pain and stiffness gone in legs, I still have neck and hip issues. Had a follow-up endoscopy last week for ulcers an d gastro dr. now found fungus in my esophagus - most likely due to prednisone according to gastro dr. I'm thoroughly frustrated and disappointed at this point, as now another medication has been added to the list to deal with this new issue. I was so hopeful when I got down to 3.5 mg prednisone and now this bounce is causing more problems. Lifestyle, diet, and exercise have always been important to me, but I am the primary caregiver to my husband for over six years already and I know that brings a lot of stress to me each and every day. Started acupuncture two weeks ago and have fingers crossed that it proves fruitful in eliminating some of the stiffness. Anyone else experiencing a lack of relief even with higher dose of prednisone?