NSAID patches?

[BikeDutchess]

I read something about these recently: http://query.nytimes.com/gst/fullpag...pagewanted=all

Reduction in GI problems is one of the benefits. But you have to apply them 4 times a day for maximum effectiveness.

The article also noted "anti-inflammatory drugs in general have been shown to slow healing of tendons and bones," so not quite an old wives' tale, but you and your doctor would have to weigh those risks against the benefits.

[OakLeaf]

Slowing recovery isn't the only risk of NSAIDS. (And it's not just tendons and bones, but muscle too - basically, NSAIDS negate the training effect.)

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/37341523...h-pain_center/

So with respect to the systemic effects, a patch would probably be safer (though I'd want to see studies on how much of the drug was absorbed systemically, before automatically concluding that).




I don't have a citation, but I've read that ibuprofen actually doesn't even relieve muscle pain, and that one of the most effective things to use for pain during a race is caffeine. Obviously you can overdo that, too, though.

[badger]

they have NSAIDS creams, don't they? I bought a tube in England but sadly had to leave it behind as I was so over my weight limit.

how is your pain these days? I'm having some issues with neck pain for the past week and it's been impacting my sleep so I can certainly empathize!

I use these, but it's for minor muscle aches, nothing major.

[jessmarimba]

I use these, but it's for minor muscle aches, nothing major.

That's what they were giving out! I'd never seen them before.

I've been a little achier than usual lately because we've started pushing things more at therapy. Plus I've had some swelling over the hardware that I haven't dealt with before, probably because the muscles are learning to deal with it.

I've finally found a use for all of the bags of frozen veggies that I buy but don't eat...was just wondering if these patches would be more convenient than strapping bags of edamame and peas to my back

[emily_in_nc]

Thanks for the info - I just ordered a free sample of the SALONPAS patch -- whattheheck; worth a try to see if it might help my SI joint pain on bike rides.

[badger]

Salonpas and Tokuhon have been around forever. While growing up, it was pretty synonymous with older folks, but now I see the benefits of them The only problem is they smell (like Ben Gay). They have clear, "unscented" kind (still smells faintly) that doesn't rip your skin off, but I haven't found them in N. America (I buy them in Japan).

[emily_in_nc]

Salonpas and Tokuhon have been around forever. While growing up, it was pretty synonymous with older folks, but now I see the benefits of them

That's ok, I'm an older folk. I can't believe these aren't new - never heard of or seen 'em. Worth a try anyway, for free.