Eliquis and severe osteoarthritis -- it's a problem, for sure. I had relied on prescription NSAIDS for decades when I was diagnosed with Afib and prescribed Eliquis. I stopped taking the NSAID and was immobilized within weeks, finally started taking the NSAID because I reckon it is important for me to keep moving. I've done a a lot of reading about this. The ARISTOTLE study is scary but osteo docs say that if you are on Eliquis, then Celebrex 200 mg once a day with a PPI is the least bad option. I make sure to take it with food. And I re-evaluate my decision frequently -- I'm in the midst of one of those re-evaluations right now. Pretty sure there is no one-size-fits-all answer . . . wishing you well with your decision-making . . .

I completely sympathize with your dilemma. I am in the same situation with Eliquis and NSAIDS. I was also diagnosed with Afib at age 70. Other than having PACs and PVCs off and on throughout my adult life, I have been healthy, have had a good diet and exercised regularly. I did develop degenerative disc disease due to arthritis, which was diagnosed a couple of years before the Afib, after I had pain from my neck down my arm as well as sciatica. NSAIDs always helped control my pain and Tylenol did nothing. (I have also been in physical therapy, had steroid injections in my back, and many other trials of things to control the pain). After being put on Eliquis I had to stop the NSAIDs and it has been very difficult. My cardiologist told me that I could take a low dose a couple of time a week, and I do occasionally but it makes me nervous. One suggestion a PA made was to have the Watchman implanted in my heart. You can stop Eliquis about 6 months after the implant. It sounds appealing but I am very hesitant to have surgery now after having a failed ablation. Maybe someone has experience with this situation and can offer other thoughts.

Sorry to hear this; at 78, just started arthritis in both thumbs ( a gardener’s and a sailor’s curse). W/ pacemaker, can take only Tylenol. I feel your pain. Opposable thumbs are fabulous when they’re pain-free and reliable!