It's funny how many different answers you can get from the different doctors. I think the best thing for you to do is to ask YOUR doctor. I'm pre-op and have surgery scheduled 11/8. This was one of my most important questions for my doc. He said I would only be able to take Tylenol for at least 6 months. Then maybe celebrex. I've tried both and neither one works for me. Therefore, I'm REALLY hoping that losing the weight will help me ALOT. I have a degenerative spine and hip. I had spine surgery a lil over two years ago and don't want anymore! Good Luck! Christine

Hi, Terri, I just went to my doctor yesterday for my preop and asked him the same question. I've been on Vioxx for years and I know there is a liquid form. But Vioxx just got pulled from the market yesterday. He said that about the only thing I'm left with is Tylenol. I'm not very happy because tylenol has never worked very well for me. Dr. McDaniel is looking into this for me. I have arthritis in my knees which should be helped by the weight loss, but I also have it in my hands and spine. Joanne

Hi Marisa, I have arthritis in both knees and I have the lower back pain. My back freezes up and I have to find a place to sit. I had a proximal RNY on August 20th. I've lost 26 pounds but I still have the same problems. My orthopedist said I would have less pain if I lose weight. I'll probably have to lose more weight to see a difference. I have to walk with a cane. I've tried to walk but haven't been able to get to a mile a day. Now that I'm four weeks out, I can start more aerobic exercise. I'll be on my stationary bicycle tomorrow. I'm hoping that will help a bit. Hang in there. It gets better with time. And I know the wls helps with problems. I'm type II diabetic and since the surgery I haven't had to take my pills or insulin. My blood pressure is not where we want it to be but it is becoming more stable. Hope you get your date soon. Take care, Sandra

Lori!! Please be careful with the Arthrotec!!! Even before I considered having surgery the Arthrotec is bad news!! I started bleeding uncontrollably! It was all from the Arthrotec. Yes, it helped with arthritis pain (I need 2 new hips) Please be careful with the Arthrotec!!! Denise

How often do you take the injections? Kathy