Spasms

Hi , I have recently been diagnosed with OA of hands and feet, had a steroid injection in my knee in January, which has helped, but still get pain and stiffness.

The Rheumy also told me that the pain in my shoulders is due to calcification, when I asked about pain relief he told me that the meds for my problems were addictive and had so many side effects. He is also sending me for tests for osteoporosis.

My questions are:-

1. What kind of meds would you normally be prescribed for OA ?

2. Why am I getting so many spasms in my ribs and back?

I have a lot of other medical problems and take a lot of meds. Also not able to tolerate strong pain meds.

My ribs and my back feel very tight and it feels like its restricting my breathing. I also have lung disease.

Sorry for the long post, any help greatly appreciated.

Jan