Hi there Linda, welcome to the forum. I feel the same way you do about taking pain killer drugs, and while we do need them it is important to try and relieve some of the pain by natural methods. Some people like massages, I don't because it hurts me to much and I cannot find anyone who does gentle massages. These are a few things I do to relieve pain for a while or forget about it, do a hobby that takes your full attention, like knitting or crochet, sewing or crafts. Work on crossword puzzles or jigsaw puzzles. Watch a good adventure movie. Read a good book. Or relax in a tub of warm water with epson salts in it. Sleep better using a fiber or feather bed mat on top of your regular matteress. Get a vibrating mat that has controls allowing you to vibrate any part of your body that hurts. These mats feel like rollers are going from your feet to your neck and back again. Some have the choice of heat as well. I use mine often. Eat good healthy foods and take vitimins. Take slow easy walks around your house or yard, no speed racing for us. For exercise try walking up & down your stairs it helps keep knees limber and legs strong. And mostly do not overdo. No more taking on to many chores, be happy getting a few done a day. The worest thing is wearing yourself out by pushing yourself too hard, then you have no energy left and the pain can be a real nightmare to deal with. Good luck in all you do.