This is a timely question to me - I have no answers I’m afraid but I did just finish a 16 day course that started with 20mg/day x 4days, then 15mg x 4days, then10, then 5. So 16 days total and I’m now off altogether for 2 days. I actually just sent my rheumatologist a MyChart Message asking if it would make sense that I’m having rebound pain. Because I have fatigue and joint pain again.

The bottom line is we are all unique and handle medication’s completely differently. I believe that you made a good choice to send your rheumatologist a message certainly can’t hurt. I called my rheumatologist who is out for the week on vacation and the nurse said they will get back to me which they never did but the way things are these days I could expect that !!! I must say that today I’m feeling a lot better than I did yesterday.. I believe that for each of us withdrawal from prednisone is different. my very best wishes to you!!!

I noticed what I would call slight withdrawl symptoms any time I was weaned to the next lower dose. Hips, shoulders, wrists and forarms would react with very minor but noticeable pain that would start a couple of days after the prednisone dose change. And only last a day or so. The same kind of physiological response would take place when I would push the limits with physical exertion. I called those mini flares that would calm down. Diagnosed Feb. of this year and started @20mg. At 20 it was difficult emotionally and physically. I'm also very sensitive to any meds. Fatigue from sleep deprivation and yes lightheadedness with mild to moderate vertigo at times. Was down to 5mg in Sept when I experienced a real flare up that would't self correct. Was moved to 15mg for ten days and then to 10mg. I'm leary of any decrease for a while. It's like a security blanket for the winter months ahead because of how the cold weather affects my PMR. I want any control I can have on this PMR hiking trail. Was supposed to set up a telehealth appointment with my Doc a couple of weeks ago. Not sure where he wants to go next with me. Procastinating because I like the homeostasis of where I'm at now. I hope things improve for you and you find that balanced care plan that's friendlier with less intense side effects.

I don't remember any symptoms after tapering for 16 months. My CRP and Sedrate were normal.