i have used the lidocaine patches for over 5 yrs..they are very helpful..my nerve endings are coming up out of the surface of my skin on my elbow and they shield any air,clothing or anything else touching the areas..i also use them on the forearm where they cut the tendons..also on my back, sometimes on my neck or right where the bra strap is,or on the lower part of my back..since i fell in the shower i also put small pieces on my ankle and my knee when needed.. my friend has a problem with them sticking and she sprays her asthma meds on her skin and it helps some.. not very effective for deep pain. when i take them off without water it hurts for awhile but in the shower they fall right off (no pain)... moonstar