my numbers were low even as I was diagnosed. My Rhuematologist diagnosed me on symptoms and said try the prednisone, if your pain goes away and you can move again, it is certainly PMR. regardless of the numbers. When I was first diagnosed, I could hardly walk and could not stand up without aid. After my second dose, the pain was gone and I was able to walk easily and stand. I was amazed. He said the numbers are a guide, not a rule. Before I was diagnosed, I was going to the gym 3 days a week and walked 3 miles a day. Within 3 months I was reduced to not even being able to get out of a chair by myself!