I am 81. Have had rheumatoid arthritis for 40years. Experiencing severe pinching pain. Get up ok but pain develops as day goes on, until it is excruciating by days end, Unable to bend even slightly. Years ago A doctor said I had a thinning of the cartilege around the left rib. A muscle had atrophied. I put this down to a period in traction, going from being reasonably active to totally inert, with my back burning like fire. After 2 days a nurse said I should have had back rubs. Traction useless. Had to have a herniated disc removed.