Lloyd, I remember 'somebody' telling me that it takes three times as much pain medication (Tylenol, Advil,Aspirin etc) afterwards compared to taking it before. Ive tried it out before shoveling snow and such and some warm-up stretches and/or a hot shower to warm and loosen the tissues and a couple of meds before the activity, and it makes a big difference. Maybe try some wrist and hand exercises and a couple of meds about 1/2 hr, or so before the session.