I was on prednisone for about 18 months. My GP had originally given it to me with a diagnosis of PMR, and only then sent me to the Rheumatologist upon my request to help me get off of it. The Rheumy put me on other drugs to help me deal with the residual pain that comes as you reduce your medication. Unfortunately, one of those drugs, hydroxychloroquine, caused my airways to swell and I experienced episodes of difficulty breathing with pretty much any exertion. It also did not work as well as the prednisone though it did take the edge off. I did get off of the prednisone and the hydroxychloroquine and was on nothing for about 7 months, but the pain was back. I had MANY bad days and tears when I just didn't want to move. I finally was able to see a new Rhemy who did a deep dive and realized that the original PMR diagnosis was completely wrong. I have just started a new medication this week. I have high hopes. We will see how it goes, but just yesterday, I was able to walk around an event for 4 hours with some tolerable pain only for the last hour. I have also found that turmeric and ginger in a tea is helpful if I do it twice every day.

Getting off of prednisone is a difficult and long process. It took me about 6 months to step it down. You are going to have some residual pain. When that happens, keep on that same lower dose and within a few days to a week, it will settle down and then you can try to go down another step as your doctor prescribes. It can almost be like fighting an addiction. When the pain flares, you are going to want to jump the dose back up, but you've got to resist that urge. It does get better. Be strong. Best of luck to you.