Thanks so much for your quick reply. My rheumatologist did discuss tapering off prednisone to a maintenance level eventually, but I am still so new to the treatment we have not talked numbers..He started me with 20 mg per day. Finding this Connect has been so encouraging, and I appreciate your help. I think I have consulted "Dr. Google" too much as it gives such a dire outlook for long term prednisone. However at this point for me it is a miracle drug. I've never experienced anything like this. My story sounds so similar to other posts- age 69, active exerciser, then sudden crushing pain and weakness. I will have to wait and see what eventually is done about pinched nerve...At this point I just feel so blessed to out of that excruciating pain for the most part, though mornings are still bad. Thanks again.