Hello @dawn0723, Welcome to Connect. You will notice that we have merged your discussion into an existing discussion - Tapering off of Prednisone so that you can meet other members with PMR like @lizzier, @kmeikle1, @maddman and others who have experience with tapering off of prednisone.

I've had 2 occurrences of PMR and started both at 20 mg dosage. The first one took me 3 and half years to taper off and the second time took me 1 and half years. I learned to keep a daily pain/aches log along with the amount of prednisone I was taking so that I could refer back when needed. Originally I started tapering down every week but later changed to every two weeks at small doses. The first time when it took 3+ years to taper off, I went back and forth between 1 mg and 1/2 mg the last 6 months until I was finally able to taper off with only minor aches when I got up in the morning. The second time around with PMR I made some lifestyle changes which I think made it easier to taper off. I exercised more and ate a little healthier focusing on low inflammatory foods.

This might help some - What to eat if you have polymyalgia rheumatica: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321683

Have you discussed any tapering schedules or tips with your rheumatologist?

I just started Methatrexate last week. Today was my second time taking it. I have not had any side affects at all. The reason I decided to take it, 10 MG once a week, is because I could only get down to 8 MG of prednisone for a few days before a major flare up. The steroids are far worst than the methatrexate according to all the research I have done. It is scary when you read all the "possible" side affects for sure...they have to include them with any drug and most all have scary side affects. I will you well, and I will let you know how I make out on this plan. I should say that I have been on steroids for almost a year.