That's an interesting question Matsz!
As far as I can tell by google searching the answer, is that ibuprofen patches are an emerging technology. A couple of companies are trying to get them on the market, but I could not find anything for sale. I seriously do have an issue with muscle tension and am making my best effort to not only "band-aid" it, but to find the root of the problem, so the tension just isn't there. Not sure what results will be, but I am going to find out. If nothing else, I will be taking ibuprofen pills from before I leave home and stay on them until after I return. A patch a day would be easier (and more fool-proof) than 2 pill every 4 hours.
I am exercising and stretching twice daily, which I've found over the last year that I have to do now that time is beginning to have it's way with me. In fact, it is the early onset of aging and seeing the effects of aging on my friends, coworkers and relatives, that is inspiring me to get out and ride the Himalaya while I still can!
I agree with you Tooseevee. Some do take a pillion on these tours, but I can't imagine it. It would also be much more strenuous to keep the bike up with a pillion in the unpaved areas. The only way my wife could've gone, due to her health, would have been to ride in the support truck. She also just wasn't "able-bodied" enough to negotiate the terrain and climb stairs etc... Ultimately we decided that she just can't come. There will be a sadness in my heart, no being able to share the experience with my best friend, but what should I do...stay home? I think some times there are things that you just have to do alone.
As far as the right wife, I could think of a few attributes that would be nice,
but for this trip, a wife who can ride her own bike would be the way to go !