Joint & Muscle Pain Flashcards
What is lumbago?
Is a back pain that affects the muscles, resulting in pain across the lower back, which radiates to the buttocks, groin and thighs.
It can also cause muscle spasms.
What is Sciatica?
It occurs when the sciatic nerve, which runs from the back of the pelvis through the buttocks and all the way down both legs.
What is a sprain?
An injury to the ligaments of a joint e.g. knee, ankle
Symptoms include:
Swelling
Bruising
Inability to move joint
What is a Strain?
An injury to the muscles or tendons that move the bones of a joint. It normally occurs due to a sudden force or overstitching of a muscle.
When to refer back pain?
Pain that goes all the way down the leg.
Numbness.
Fever.
N&V.
Swelling in the area.
Symptoms that have not improved in 2-3 weeks.
When to refer sprains and strains?
Severe pain
Numbness
Symptoms that have not improved in 48 hours
What are the treatment options for joint and muscle pain?
NSAIDs - Tablets or rubs e.g. Voltarol, Ibuleve, Movelat
Rubefacients - Distracts brain with heat e.g. Deep heat
Cooling Therapy - e.g. Deep freeze
Cautions for topical painkillers?
Should not be applied to broken or infected skin.
Eyes, mouth and mucous membrane should be avoided.
They should not be used longer than 7 days.
Asthma Diabetes Children under 12 Pregnancy Oral NSAIDs Anticoagulants
Self care tips for joint and muscle pain?
Treat sprains and strains with PRICE up to 48hrs after the injury.
Crepe bandages can help with support and swelling.
Avoid sitting or standing in one position for long periods of time.
Warm up before exercise to avoid sprains and strains.
Why is Flarin special?
Flarin is the only OTC ibuprofen 200mg tablet with a unique lipid formula. It is able to absorb quicker and is proven to work just as effectively as ibuprofen 400mg.
