Hi MaryAnn @maryannhaller, Welcome to Connect. My first occurrence of PMR lasted for 3 and half years and like you I had trouble tapering down with prednisone. I also started with 20mg. I spent the last six months going back and forth between 1mg and 1/2mg dosage until I was finally able to stop taking it and only had minor aches and stiffness which got better after I got up and started moving around. My second occurrence of PMR came after being in remission for 6 years, but this time I had made a few lifestyle changes which I think made it possible for me to taper off of the prednisone in a little over a year and half. Most of the lifestyle changes that helped me was losing a little weight, including exercising and eating healthier - eliminating a lot of the extra sugar intake, processed foods and fast food take outs. Here's some information that you might find helpful if you have not already tried it.

Can Diet Affect Symptoms of Polymyalgia Rheumatica?: https://www.healthline.com/health/polymyalgia-rheumatica-diet

Have you tried any lifestyle changes to see if they might help also?