What Causes Pain In The Finger Joints When Diagnosed With Osteoarthritis?

Posted on Fri, 16 Dec 2016

Question: I am having uncomfortable pain in my finger joints, which has been diagnosed as osteoarthritis and not rheumatoid. I was taking diclofenac but had to stop because of gastric bleeding. I am taking acetaminophen now with only minor relief. I am 83 years old, and have had both knees replaced years ago. Otherwise in reasonably good health....for my age. Any suggestions on relieving this pain?
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Answered by Dr. Klarida Papaqako (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Recommendations to take Naproxen with Omeprazole (avoids stomach damage)

Detailed Answer:
Hello,

Thank you for using HCM to post your question.
I read it carefully and I understand your concern.

When treating osteoarthritis the first choice is Paracetamol until we reach the maximum dose of 1000mg every 4-6 hours. If that its not enough then we add another NSAIDs.

Diclofenac is from this class, which all cause problems to the stomach, but diclofenac is not the best.

I recommend my patients Naproxen which its the one which gives less problem to the stomach and I also combine it with Omeprazole to protect the stomach.

I don't give plaquenil because it has a lot of side effects and it's used for rheumatoid arthritis not for osteoarthritis and so I am not sure if it will be helpful.

Hope this is helpful.
Let me know if you need more clarifications.

Regards,
Dr.Papaqako

Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Arnab Banerjee