Hi Pete,

Thanks for your comments. The lidocaine patches really help to decrease pain. I used them on my shoulder before getting a total shoulder replacement in August this year. There is a prescription strength patch, 5% lidocaine available as well. They cost quite a lot though, and OTC 4% patches probably work just as well.

I inherited osteoarthritis from my Mom, and it's everywhere. I'm 71 and I've had both knees replaced, right hip, and just 3 months ago, left shoulder. The surgeries have truly helped rod me of pain in those joints.

Hands, ankles, and feet are harder to treat. I did have bunionectomies in both big toes about 1o years ago, and that really helped. I have arthritis at the base of my thumb and in my fingers. I find movement is the best thing and most days don't feel anything. But a brace is an excellent idea.

(Lidocaine is also available in cream form. Another good OTC gel for arthritis pain is Voltaren. For anyone considering this, it does have more side effects, so please check that out first.

Joe