Hello @lcrquestions, Welcome to Mayo Connect. I think it's normal to be a little anxious when you are first diagnosed. Three great questions and you might get a lot of different answers from all of us who have dealt with PMR. I've had 2 occurrences of PMR and the last one was 6 years ago. I kept a daily log with my level of pain when I got up in the morning and the dosage of prednisone for the day. I started at 20 mg for both occurrences and took 3-1/2 years to taper off the first time and 1-1/2 years the second time around. I logged my level of pain between 0 and 10. When it was time to taper to the next lower dose I only tapered when it was 2 or less on my pain scale. Each of us are different though so I don't think it's the same for everyone.

@dadcue started a couple of discussions that I think would be helpful for you while you wait for your appointment with the rheumatologist and hopefully can have a good discussion and ask lots of questions if needed.

-- Comprehensive Overview Of PMR:
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/comprehensive-overview-of-pmr/
-- How to Slowly and Safely Taper Off Prednisone but ... no set rules.: https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/how-to-slowly-and-safely-taper-off-prednisone-but-no-set-rules/

Do you keep a daily log of your pain and dosage?