I have been dealing with PMR for 2 1/2 years. Tapered off Prednisone and got a flare up. Started back on 5, now down to 3 and not feeling great. My hands also are really hurting. Just got a second opinion from another Rheumatologist and I am going to stick with her. She clearly wants me off the Prednisone since it effects my blood sugars and bones. I will probably taper slowly off the 3 mg pred which doesn't seem to be helping, while on Methotrexate. Both Rheumatologists believe it is the lesser of the two evils, depending on those side effects. Just means more blood tests to monitor liver. Not easy and this pain from PMR is not something you can even describe. I take calcium pills, had Reclast infusion and stay active to protect my bones. Challenging times.