Hello @chzuck, I see that you have already met another new member @kipster and I would like to welcome you both to Connect. @chzuck you will notice that we moved your post to this existing discussion on the same topic so that you can learn what others have shared. If you click the link below it will take you to the top of the discussion:
--- New to PMR - Are Monthly Labs and Check-ups normal?: https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/doctor-schedule/.

I've had 2 occurrences of PMR but it is currently in remission. I was started at 20 mg prednisone for both and my rheumatologist gave me a suggested tapering schedule but also reminded me that the pain needs to be controlled and not to taper if I'm having too much pain. The first occurrence of PMR in 2007 took me 3 and half years to taper off and I stayed in remission until 2016 when it reared it's ugly head again. It took me 1 and half years to taper off the second time around which I think had a lot to do with changing my lifestyle some, more exercise without overdoing it and eating healthier diet to help with inflammation.

The skin tears is definitely frustrating. I also have thin skin that bruises and tears/bleeds easily but I'm not sure it's the prednisone for me since I wasn't on it for a long period of time but then I'm 80 and think it might have something to do with age for me.

@chzuck I found keeping a daily log with my level of pain when I woke up along with my dose of prednisone for the day helped me determine whether or not I should taper down or back up 1/2 of my previous taper down. My rheumatologist recommended it and it did help me. Do you keep a daily log?

@kipster It's great to hear Mr. Ugly is back in his box for you and you don't have to take prednisone anymore. Do you mind sharing how long it took you to taper off of prednisone?