Hey noelfitz, My name is Rich and I have Osteoarthritis since 1976 and functioned just fine until 1998 just using over the counter pain control, then in 1998 I started looking for medical help and was hard to find any Dr. who would help out due to lack of edcation so before going to Dr. for help do your homework at mayo clinic web site they have a page prepareing for your Dr. Appt. which may be helpful.

In 2002 DX with Neuropathy which is where most of my pain comes from,a bone spur removed from left sholder and cuff repair in 2008, and total knee replacement in 2010, so I take Tramadol 200mg a day, Gabapentin 1800mg a day, and Diflunisal 1000mg for inflammiation.

Bottom line it depends on how severe it is and your ability to handle pain!!

Hope this helps!