Naproxan

Switch from a systemic to a topical.  NSAIDs are not really great for long term use.  Voltaren Gel is the best topical anti-inflammatory on the market...RX in the US, generic diclofenac everywhere else.  Use it a few times a day, especially at bedtime.

The "stiffness/tightness" lasts a while...totally normal.  You almost forget about it by your first anniversary but could last longer.  Doing the muscle rebuild for your quads, glutes and core definitely helps.  Life-long?  TKR veterans report that the stiffness will return if you stop actively using/exercising the knee.

Just stop taking it and put up with the stiffness , or just take a panadol . You will have a bit of discomfort but they are bad for you , I never took pain killers after8 wks except panadol osteo

Hi I agree with Chico that Voltarol Gel worth trying I find it very good. It is available on prescription in the UK but especially if you are in England it may or may not be on the local CCG ‘approved’ list but your GP should be able to justify on basis of clinical need. But they may make you jump through the hoops of trying another topical that IS approved first - ibuprofen gel, pirixicam, ketoprofen did example. You may need to stick up for yourself on this the nhs postcode lottery is getting worse in the UK especially in England 

I am over 6 months post RTKR.  I had a heart attack a couple of years ago so I am not suppose to take Naproxen or any other anti-inflammatory.   Since like you I still get stiffness, general tightness and discomfort from my knee I use ice, elevation and the Voltaren Gel for relief.  Then if I have really over used my knee...I use a Flector Patch (diclofenac epolamine patch 1.3%) which you need a RX for here in the states.  I wrap it around my knee and then wrap my knee with an elastic wrap to keep it in place and that can be left on for 12 hours.  

But if I hadn't had the heart attack and could take the anti-inflammatories, I would take one now and then for relief...my husband had a bad fall years ago and broke ribs and both collarbones.  The doctor had him take Naproxen for about 6 months to help while he was healing.  So I would talk with your doctor about how safe it is for you to take (stomach issues/heart issues and so on).

if you're doing well, why still taking Aleve?  Just wondering...  Im 6 months po, and I still have to take it.  Went to my Primary care physician yesterday and she discouraged me from taking it. Said it can damage my kidneys...

Please note:

There are two types of OTC pain relievers.  The first is a group called NSAIDs..Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug.  They are ALL THE SAME...Ibuprofen, Naproxen, Aleve, etc...etc...  Also included in this group is plain, old aspirin. They are NSAIDs...best used for inflammation conditions. The second is Acetaminophen...Tylenol.  Lots of brand names and house brands for this stuff.  Best for aches and pain.

You will also see these drugs mixed with other pain relievers.  Example: Oxycodone with Acetaminophen is called Percocet.  Notice a dosage like 5/325 indicating 5 mg of the opioid and 325 mg of the Tylenol.  The same oxycodone mixed with aspirin is called Percodan...notice the name change?

What you have to do, as a wise consumer, is to READ THE LABEL!!!!!!  Know what you're taking and how much.  Know that NSAIDs cannot be taken long term as they have an adverse effect on your stomach lining.  Also, Tylenol is NOT recommended long term.  These seemingly innocuous meds have long-term effects.  Beware.

Sorry...  Was married to a pharmacist for 25 years and now a great lady who was a psych nurse for thirty.  I've been surrounded by the science for decades...

Thank you all for your replies. I'm going to try to do without naproxen and see how I go. Knee 2, 17th August.