I check with my doctor today ... I should be good to go with tart cherry extract.

She also mentioned that I might try turmeric (yes, its the seasoning sometimes associated with curry).  It is also supposed to be a pain reliever (however, I'd already ruled this one out due to its documented interaction with blood thinner medication).  Interestingly enough, it appears that turmeric is more readily absorbed by the human body if it is used in conjunction with pepper.  So curry up everyone!!!

dd