Question
I have a couple of questions:
I抳e lost cartilage in both ankles and have arthritis and have a couple of questions:

1-   For over the counter pain relievers is there one brand better than the other such as, Advil, Aleve, Ibuprofen, Tylenol, Bayer Aspirin, etc. Also, I抦 currently taking these pain relievers, 2 tabs, 4 times a week, is this too much?
2-   What type of shoes or supports can you recommend for constant walking?
3-   What is your feeling about using Synvisc and does it work and how long does it last?

Thank you...Chris

Answer
Hello,
I'm not sure of your age, activities or of any prior injuries or the condition of the cartilage.  However, pain relievers can work differently for different people, so sometimes it is a trial and error thing.  Certain ones can bother your stromach or cause other problems, so it may be a good idea to contact your family doctor before taking them, especially for the dosage based on your weight and condition.  Shoes and supports are also an individual thing, based upon the condition of your feet and measurements taken.  Synvisc may not work for everyone, according to their website, http://www.synvisc.com/ amd there may be side effects, which you can also read about on the site.  Without knowing how, where or why cartilage has been lost, as well as other important details, it is difficult to expand further.  However, in general, any activities that would irritate the cartilage and need to be modified, limited or avoided is something that may be useful to preserve the joints. This type of advice may be available through your doctor or his or her referal.  
Thank you.