Ditto on the second opinion. There are all sorts of medicines for uses that are not limited to MD's. There are homeopathic/natualpathic alternatives to medicines without pharmaceuticals. So, check around. You could also find and contact the closest Arthritis Foundation. They sometimes have connections with specialists in the area that they reccomend, and sometimes have workshops/classes. Easter seals also has classes in some areas with the WMCA that use water aerobics for the pain of arthritis. Just ideas to check out. Good luck:)