Hi @dmoonchild, autoimmune diseases, like PMR and GCA, are notorious for being troublesome to diagnose. You only have to see these related discussions to realize that you are unfortunately not alone in your pursuit of a proper diagnosis and how to get one.

- Is everyone here diagnosed with PMR seeing a rheumatologist? https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/rheumatologist-1/
- Do I really have PMR? https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/so-i-really-have-pmr/
- PMR initial diagnosis: Can there be an underlying disease? https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/pmr-initial-diagnosis-1/
- Were you misdiagnosed with PMR? What was your diagnosis?https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/misdiagnosis/

I'm sure @pickle7 @tsc @novabill @marilynredder2367 @milld835 @susan63 @microbe1943 @lmoross and other members can share stories and tips with you too.

Moonchild, did your new doctor explain why she/he took you off your medications or explain that they ruled out PMR and why? Did they tell you what they think is going on and why the referral to pain management?