Hi @novabill, I think there's truth in what you say. Cecil and Goldman's Textbook of Medicine states, "... these disorders - PMR and GCA - are propogated by antigen driven cell mediated immune mechanisms that may be associated with certain genetic markers..." I first injured my ankle, it hurt for a couple of days before my whole body from the neck down was overcome with pain and stiffness, like nothing I experienced before. My aunt's PMR, about 45 years ago, was preceded by a back injury. I think the injuries we suffer stimulate an autoimmune response, that, because of our genetic predisposition, goes into overdrive. I hope your taper continues to be successful.