I think it would be worth looking into "why" the prednisone worked. that might indicate that it is an inflammatory process causing the PN. If you find the source of the inflammation, then you might be able to address it directly and avoid the steroids.

If it's autoimmune based (which can cause inflammation), then it might not be an easy fix.

Steroids may help to reduce inflammation and make you feel better, BUT the long term affect of steroids (even low doses) on your body can be awful. Other factors need to be considered...like age, other conditions like diabetes (steroid increase your risk of this), bone density, etc.