PredniSONE and prescribed medication

Since May 1st, I was put on Prednisone for extreme physical inmobility. My first doctor (in emergency room of hospital)diagnosed me as having Polymyalgia Rheumatica. However, my specialist is still unsure as all test results have not come back. I was on a heavier dosage of prednisone and tapered off for 1 week when symptom reoccured. My specialist has me down to 2 pills a day and mobility has resumed. During this time, I have experienced skin rashes, tremendous hair loss, cramping in legs, pain in right arm, joint pains and stiffness. I look like I am pregnant at 68 yrs. old. What's with the stomach bloating? I hate the taste of the pills, the nervousness it creates. Can arthritis be this painful to the point I can't move at all? . As a woman... and vain....It makes me want to cry at the hair loss I go through every day.
There maybe more health issues with me than I am unware of at this moment. Is taking Prednisone a commonly prescribed medication for arthritis or other related issues?
There should be another drug with less side effects.