First of all, what kind of arthritis do you have?  Are you being seen by
a Rheumatologist?  If not, get a referral and an appointment soon.  This
is the kind of doc you need to treat your arthritis.  If you are not
satisfied that your PCP is treating you well, find another one.  His
duty is to treat you or send you out to a specialist, that is what you
are paying him for.

Ann

i'm sorry you have arthritis. you've come to the right group.  welcome.  you
shouldn't have to suffer like this.  there is no reason you have to.  have
you had xrays done on your shoulders?

as to what you can do---get yourself to a rheumatologist, as soon as
possible.  if you need a referral, ask for one or insist on  one from your
doctor.  if your insurance allows you to refer yourself, then do that.  if
you have had xrays of your shoulders and any bloodwork done, take those with
you to the rheumatologist with you.

good luck.
kate

Before my two shoulder hemi-arthroplasty operations, I had the most dreadful
pain in my shoulders. It was much worse than my knees and hip pain added
together. But, the operations worked for me and I got exactly what the
surgeon promised - two shoulders completely pain-free, and with slight range
of movement restriction.

I hope you manage to get something sorted out soon. Remember to take someone
with you when you see any medics, and write down a list of questions.
Janet

Your doctor does not appear to be doing his job under current practice
guidelines.  All my physicians offices ask about pain level along with
checking pulse, temp and blood pressure.

Even when I went in to schedule my ear surgery the nurse asked about and
noted pain levels in my chart.

Only one of them prescribes for pain.  Or for anything else but DMARDS for
that matter.  The others will ask or tell him if something else needs to be
added to the mix so he has all the meds and can keep track of testing etc.
And he DOES prescribe adequate pain medication.  Even gets on my case for
not using it more often.

Jo

Jo

First, what kind of arthritis?  Who diagnosed it?
You really haven't given us many clues.

What kind of physician?  GP?   RD (rheumatologist)?

Probably find a new doctor.  I he's a GP/PCP have
him make a referral to a rheumatologist.

Get thee to another doctor!  Arthritis pain in the shoulders is one of the
worst, in my opinion.  From my own experience, Tylenol and Ibuprofen won't
touch it, as you have discovered.  Do you go to a Rheumatologist?  That is
the specialist you want to see.  Keep us posted.  Nanny

Lots of folks have already said this, but to further reinforce the point -
Get to another doctor, preferably a rheumatologist. Where do you live?
Someone here might have a recommendation for you.