Arthritis in both shoulders and neck

I have found my Osteopath most helpful with my arthritic neck and shoulder problems. If you have one near by then it may be worth a visit.

I’m so sorry, my thumbs are my most painful and my back in the morning after sleeping. My shoulders are very graunchy sounding but don’t hurt (yet?)
It’s a curse probably of ageing but I think the best thing is to try and keep everything moving the best we can.

It would seem metabolisms vary. I can take ibuprofen with no problems whereas even paracetamol has an adverse effect. You are lucky that you can take co-codamol with none of the usual problems.

Madwoman11

Pollydolly fresh fruit etc don't work to keep me regular unfortunately. I would certainly need laxatives when taking co codamol

Works for me and I take Co-Codamol regularly and have done for years.

Pollydolly fresh fruit etc don't work to keep me regular unfortunately. I would certainly need laxatives when taking co codamol

Anti inflamatories are the only thing that really help but. Like you, MadWoman, I can’t take them. I try to have regular massage and keep moving, stretching.
A physio would give you exercises that help

Fresh fruit might well ‘do the trick’ under normal circumstances but from experience a little extra help is needed when taking something as strong as co-codamol.

dragonfly46

Ice can help to reduce inflammation and the doctor can prescribe ibuprofen gel. The other option is coco Damon but you also need laxatives if you take them.

That is not quite correct dragonfly46, Co-codamol does not have to be taken in conjunction with a laxative. It is possible to manage 'that issue' with a regular intake of the right sort of fruit and food stuffs. Why reach for the pills when fresh fruit will do. the trick?

I have seen shoulder heat pads advertised which are like a fitted electric blanket. Might that help?

Arthritis is a bugger alright. I sometimes have to take anti-inflammatories but as you can’t ask your GP for the best alternative. I agree with Allsorts you have to keep the joints moving as best you can, use rub in gels if you are able to rub them in. I do gentle stretches and roll my shoulders and circle my arms regularly to keep my shoulders moving. Swimming is good too.

That should be co-codamol!

I have it too, as well as feet and knees and hips. I haven't found anything that makes it better really. Just have to keep joints working despite the pain or they seize up. Some days better than others, can't do anything to repetitive or its hell for days. Those wheat filled bags you warm up help with neck and shoulders, I listen to my classical musical and relax.

Ice can help to reduce inflammation and the doctor can prescribe ibuprofen gel. The other option is coco Damon but you also need laxatives if you take them.