Carole
I also have recently been diagnosed with PMR. I am 64, white, female. I started Prednisone at 40 mg. Every 3 weeks my dosage was lowered. When I got to 7.5 mg, I started hurting again and am back up to 10 mg. I understand it is best to taper off very slowly,(i.e. 10 mg to 9 for 2 weeks and then 9-8-9-8-9-8-9 for 2 more weeks. I also started an exercise program last week and was surprised that I did not hurt more. I went to an exercise physiologist and physical therapist. The important thing is not to push yourself. All the machines I am using at present are without resistance and the dumbells are only 2 lbs. I HATE BEING ON PREDNISONE because I have gained weight -- even at 10 mg. Another woman I know her rheumatologist told her to take Glucosamine because it does not have side effects (not with sulfate or chondrotin) She said it totally relieved her neck and shoulder pain is completely gone. I have not tried that. Good luck to your mother.