Has anyone been on this prior to surgery ... the off because of surgery ... then after a period of time been allowed to start taking it again ?

Cold months approaching and it's already getting to me ... I don't know HOW I'll make it through winter without it !

I emailed the doc office this morning to ask about it ... and was told that it's up to my pain management doctor ... I thought that was odd ... thought the surgeon would decide ...

I have used the Voltaren topical cream for years for orthopedic related aches and pains in my hips and legs. I just used it straight through with no problem. The good news is that losing weight has created its own relief on my joints and I have not needed or used the Voltaren cream for months.

@@Miss Mac I use the cream every night ... unfortunately during the day ... because of the dry time ... I cannot use it while at work ... that is why the pill form worked better during work hours ... isn't it always something!

just when you think you're winning one battle ... another comes along

I take Diclofenac (generic name for Voltaren) daily and have with no interruptions because of surgery. I have been fortunate enough to even be able to cut down to only one pill a day at most. More & more often I do not even have to take it.

I was put on another pill to help with heartburn that begins with an "O", but my memory fails me at the moment.

As always, talk to your surgeon about it!

@BigViffer I know everyone is different .. and I know I have an Iron stomach ... at least when it was bigger it was ! I've been very lucky to not have anything bother me yet ... but then again ... I'm scared of everything ... I'm such a chicken!

Thank you for your post ... I like getting the different points of view ... so that I can compile the information and make an informed choice when I approach the doc ...