Between Mayo Connect and HealthUnlocked PMR group out of the UK, there are many thousands of us and I haven't read of one who was able to deal with real PMR without prednisone. I was diagnosed two years ago at age 72. I have difficulty tapering below 10 mgs. and that's where I am at the moment. We all want off of prednisone, but the objective is to find a place where the discomfort can be tolerated well and then taper slowly (never more than 10% of current dose). In terms of side affects, weight gain can be managed (low carb); the thinning of skin is annoying; bone loss can be dealt with with alendronate sodium. No one likes prednisone, but it allows us to live life. Best to you. Kathy