Thought this experience might be useful to other members: After taking steroids for a year to control the TED I was weaned off, stopping completely in September. Within a week I was suffering from debilitating joint pain. My muscles were also stiff and painful. It was like a preview of old age. My GP thought that I might have Fibromyalgia, but I wasn't keen on having another illness and more drugs. She referred me to a Rheumatologist. In the meantime I saw an osteopath, took moderate excercise and a few supplements - including Magnesium Malate & Omega 3,6,9. There has been some improvement. I saw the Rheumatologist today. He confirmed that I have no arthritis and that my inlammation & vitamin D levels are good. He believes that the pain is purely down to steroid withdrawal and suggested going back on a very small dose to help. I flatly refused, not seeing the sense delaying the inevitable. The steroids have been useful in controlling my eye disease but they have had considerable side effects - this particular one could have led to further treatment for a condition I don't have.