Rheumatoid Arthritis Support Group

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic, inflammatory, multisystem, autoimmune disorder. It is a disabling and painful condition which can lead to substantial loss of mobility due to pain and joint destruction. The disease is also systemic in that it often also affects many extra-articular tissues throughout the body including the skin, blood vessels, heart, lungs, and...

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Muscles & Bones
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lidoderm Patch

Lynnedz56
Lynnedz56
I haven't been around much, as my new rheumy is not sure I have RA. Just a LOT of arthritis. I additionally have renal insuffiency from taking Ibuprofen and Congestive Heart Failure and in May had a stent put in my heart. Along with asthma. Yesterday, my doctor gave me Lidoderm patches and also Flector Patches and said I could try those. However, the packages say to be careful if you have heart disease or kidney disease. I have both. Is anyone familiar with these?
deleted_user
deleted_user
At one point I used lidoderm patches on my feet due to SEVERE foot pain from RA. I found the patches didn't work too well...they just numbed my skin, and my pain was deep in my joints. Also they made it difficult to walk, as your foot would slide around on the gel patch. They didn't work for pain relief on any other joints either, but each of us is different and they may help you. If I recall they were very expensive because there is no generic version.

As to whether or not you can use them with heart or kidney disease, I don't know. That might be a good question for the pharmacist if you can't get your doc on the phone.
deleted_user
deleted_user
Yes, tried it. Didn't help. Really only a topical. I also put them on many people at work-am a nurse. But I hope it helps for you! erica