I had a fall off a ladder that has caused neck/shoulder/upper back inflammation and pain (I already have osteoarthritis in my back/neck). I was at the PCP yesterday and she said an NSAID would be the best help, but I can't take them due to the LB (I'm on acetaminophen and an anti-spasmodic drug now, no steriods or opiates as I don't want to start that unless it gets worse and it is improving).

The reason we're not allowed NSAID's is not just 'the pill sitting in the pouch and irritating the stomach lining, or getting stuck above the stoma', like we see posted, but it also gets into the blood stream, changes the lining of the stomach, and makes us more prone to ulcers. I came home from the PCP and had a thought...I've now done a little research on the topical NSAID's (gel and patch) as my DH found relief with a short-term back problem this summer with use of the gel (Voltaren). Some say that these do not cross into the blood stream at even 10% the amount as the oral ones, but I'm not sure and found conflicting information online. I already put in a message to my LB Surgeon to ask if these are allowed.

Does anyone else know anything else about these (NSAID topical creams/gels/patch) or have information from their LB Surgeon on these being allowed after the LB...yes, I know you're not a Doc and different surgeons have different rules...just curious what your Doc says? Thanks!

I can't see any reason why they'd be contraindicated (unless you have an allergy, like I do); they bypass the gastrointestinal tract completely.

NSAIDs are contraindicated for us lap-bandsters because they are really hard on the stomach when ingested. Topical should not be a problem at all.

-Libby