after i was injured during an apprehansion gone terrible wrong I had RA set in my injured joints (ankles, knees, and hip) they prescribed Celebrex and I love the stuff but since the insurance companies got squemish and it was temporarily taken off until it comes back they recommended Alieve. I only have to take it occasionally if the weather changes colder suddenly or I intend to do something strenuous. I would also reccomend to you Glucosamine supplements. From my years of being an ex pet store manager this supplemement was originally designed for large dogs such as german shephards and danes that are genetically dispositioned for joint pain and hip displacia. Its medicinial purposes also benefit humans as well. Don't be fooled by buying the expensive stuff from health stores, over the counter offers the same amount - glucosamine with chondrotin sulfate. If you need to apply heat on your joint areas and want to forgo the heating pad you can also use a bag of uncooked rice in a plastic bag and then wrap it up in a towel or clean sock. Microwave the rice and it stays hot for hours and in a sock it is more pliable and can be tied into place for comfort or to hit those hard to reach joints the pad just can't suround - like knees and wrists.
Only advice I can offer - as to the positions - have no prior expertise in that area.