I joined this forum a couple of days ago and since then have read every post from the beginning. I'm so grateful to learn from your experience! I am sharing my story because I think it will help with the emotional shock I am feeling. I am a 62 year old woman who runs daily and lifts weights 3-4 times a week--so extremely active! I woke up one morning with stiff neck that, over the next few days, progressively moved to the usual suspect spots on my body (shoulders, thoracic spine, chest, wrist, hips). After a week of intense pain (unable to lift my arms, couldn't turn my head, screamed in pain with every movement--I know you've been there!), my son convinced me to go the ER. I was diagnosed with PMR during an emergency room visit on May 7. The amazing ER staff immediately consulted with a rheumatolagist who ordered the correct blood work and prescribed 20 mg prednisone. Within an hour my pain was gone! I can't believe how fortunate I am to have received such a quick diagnosis and an appointment with a rheumatolagist within 3 days. I was ready to tell the rheumatologist to take me off the Prednisone--I felt so good! Don't worry--I'm still on the 20 mg and plan to follow a slow and smart taper based on the wonderful advice from this forum. My heart goes out to those of you who suffered for weeks, months and years without a proper diagnosis. Thanks for this opportunity to share my story.