Well,

it reduces inflammation... which is a double-edged sword. Inflammation and pain can be protective responses to prevent you from doing things you would otherwise do, and causing more damage. On the other hand, sometimes an area can get so inflamed that before the underlying condition can be treated (for instance with PT) some reduction of inflammation and/or pain is warranted.

For diagnostic purposes it might not make too much difference. It won't change what's on your MRI. Now, for the physical exam, it depends how much the new doc takes into account the effects...

if it were me, i think would do what you said: stop taking it until you see the new doc, so she sees you with full symptoms.

Also, should the new doc then want you to take it after your visit, i would feel better if you spoke with your pdoc about it - any steroid taken systemically presents a risk for mania... sensitivity to it may differ across patients so even a low dose could possibly affect you.

(((HUGS))))

~ waves ~