I think the primary indicator is how I feel. Started at 15mg of prednisone 6 months ago and my inflammation was way up 30 to 40. It dropped to 4 and last couple checks it was at 14 or so. I have roller coaster down to 6mg of prednisone now and plan to do 1mg drop at 4 week intervals. And continue to exercise and dance to build my muscles back up. Male 65 years old. Currently I am feeling pretty good. As long as I am feeling good I don't feel the need to get my inflammation checked again. Bigger complaint is stiff sore weak hands but that is not consistent, and better by end of day.