Topical NSAIDs as effective as oral NSAIDs for OA

Starburst

I saw an article tweeted by AC that topical NSAIDs (gels, creams etc) are as effective as oral NSAIDs for OA of the knee/s and hand/s.

I thought it might be of interest to some people.
http://www.news-medical.net/news/20120921/Topical-NSAIDs-as-effective-as-oral-NSAIDs-for-knee-hand-arthritis.aspx

Soretoe2

I can no longer take oral anti-inflammatories due to having an ulcer. However the gp gave me a topical one that I occasionally rub in my feet but I don't find it as effective as the oral ones used to be.

Starburst

I have RA not OA but the other day, my rheumy was telling me that the joints in your feet are buried deep. The article says that topical NSAIDs work better on joints that are nearer the surface such as; knuckles and fingers. I'd like to give gel another go (for my hands) but I'm on the max dose of celebrex and assume it wouldn't be safe.

Soretoe2

Hi Starburst, I usually rub it in my toes rather than deep in my feet. I have big pins in my feet and when it's raining or cold they go into overdrive and nothing touches them.
I would imagine if you are on a high dose of celebrex you'd need to check with your gp before trying it anyway. My gp told me that although only a small amount gets into the body via topical application it still has to be taken into account as it adds to the daily intake of anti-inflammatory.
Have you thought about wax baths for your hands? I find them very soothing. Nothings simple in the war against arthur. Joy

earthspirit

my friend uses voltarol which i think is diclofenac? she says it works on knees and feet but eases the muscle pains too and does reduce the swelling. she takes nothing by mouth due to previous stomach surgery. it does count in your daily dose but if it works its a slightly less harmful way of taking the drug. you can buy over the counter