Start the prednisone immediately.  You could be pain free tonight.  But five days isn't nearly enough.  You need a two- to three-week taper.  Call that doc and tell him to look up the protocols and get you on a longer treatment cycle.  I hate the damned things, but they work.  I have had relief within 24 hours of taking the first dose of a prednisone taper, and I hope the same happens for you!