I took Bextra (also a cox 2 inhibitor,now banned) years ago for arthritis...I felt 10 years younger but it gave me chest pains when I exercised hard so I quit taking it. That was before they knew about the link to heart attacks but it just didn't feel right to me.

I don't know how they currently assess the risk, you can probably find material online and from your doctor.. I personally wouldn't take it for mild arthritis, but it might be worth it to you if your doc oks it.

Exercise can really help arthritis, hands too. Have you worked at jobs that were hard on your hands? Physical therapy can do wonders sometimes.

Just my humble opinions, I could be all wet.

judi