Everyone is different of course in how PMR affects them and the course of treatment they choose. I woke up one morning with pain, stiffness and muscle weakness in lower extremities and neck. When I was diagnosed, I decided to opt for aquatic exercise and anti-inflammatory diet. No steroids. I did this for about a year. Lost considerable weight and gradually saw my muscles regain strength. Then, woke up one morning and suddenly as before the pain was gone except for the neck which took awhile longer. That was about two years ago. My Sed and ESR gradually went down as well. It was a gamble but one I was willing to take. I am in my 70's.