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@deejayc

I was on prednisone for just about a year. I started on 20 mg, tapered weekly to 10 mg and then tapering 1 mg every 4 weeks. I’ve been off for about 2 months but am still suffering stiffness and pain every day. My rheumatologist said because my inflammation markers had decreased, I no longer had PMR and that some stiffness could occur for a “while”. Has anyone else experienced this? And for how long? Another issue is that my upper arms are really sore - can’t lift them over my head or extend them. I’m assuming PMR issue but will a chiropractor help? Am I having a flare? Do people go back on prednisone when having a flare? TIA.

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Replies to "I was on prednisone for just about a year. I started on 20 mg, tapered weekly..."

My PMR was diagnosed quickly and I began taking 20mg of prednisone. I felt relief within 30 hours. I was then referred to a rheumatologist and my prednisone was reduced to 15mg after 4 weeks and then to 10mg after another 4 weeks. From there, the plan was to take one milligram less every two weeks. (I was told this reduction schedule was critical.) I was experiencing some discomfort and then I got COVID when I was at 6mg and this stalled the progression. Leflunomide was added to the prednisone and I was off prednisone within 9 months and also discontinued the leflunomide. I did have a minor flareup 3 months later. I have been drug free for 5 months. In recent months, I have been experiencing stiffness and minor discomfort after being stationary for an extended time, at night, and the morning. I am uncertain if this is “normal” and how things are going to be, or if I am heading toward another flareup. I do have full movement in my arms and legs.