COX-2 inhibitors are popular in the treatment of arthritis because they reduce inflammation and decrease pain without causing stomach upset. However, many studies in animals and humans show that some anti-inflammatory drugs delay or reduce bone healing after fractures.

Indomethacin, aspirin, and ibuprofen are anti-inflammatory drugs often taken for arthritis pain. They can decrease the amount of bone that grows in and around joint implants. If your mother had a total hip replacement after her hip fracture, these drugs may not be advised.

Be sure and check with her doctor about the best drug to help with her arthritis. Ask about an anti-inflammatory that won't affect the healing bone.