Hi ymp35,
Arthritis in my neck, hands, elbows and knees adds to my other problems. A week ago I stopped taking my Arcoxia (COX-2 Inhibitor) as the start of my annual 'Making sure I'm not addicted/What else are the painkillers masking?' month (or as long as I can swap them about). Those joints are now an angry, fiery red, and the neck pain - and referred pain - is jacked up 2 points. Although meds are depressing and side-effects can wreak havok with our bodies, sometimes it is better to bow to the inevitable and accept the help.
Then again, have you tried acupuncture? I had some pain relief in my neck with Eastern acupuncture, where I also have crushed vertebrae injury and compressed spinal cord. A Physiotherapist who did the same triggered TN attacks.
I have also used Voltarol and Capsaicin creams to some effect on small joints at early stages of pain.

Dave.