Soft Tissue Injuries/Musculoskeletal Pain Flashcards
Do soft tissue injuries/musculoskeletal pain require a counselling room?
No
What are 8 red flags for referral with soft tissue injuries/musculoskeletal pain?
- Suspected fracture
- Possible adverse drug reaction; falls in elderly,
- unexplained bruising
- Head injury
- Medication failure
- Arthritis
- Severe, persistent back pain
- Back pain (and/or pins and needles/numbness) radiating down legs
Do soft tissue injuries/musculoskeletal pain have a PSA self-care card?
Yes (Sprains and Strains)
What is the preferred treatment option for soft tissue injuries/musculoskeletal pain?
Paracetamol
What are the directions for paracetamol in soft tissue injuries/musculoskeletal pain?
15 mg/kg (up to 1,000 mg) every FOUR to SIX hours. Maximum of 60 mg/kg (up to 4,000 mg) in 24 hours.
What are 3 non-preferred options for soft tissue injuries/musculoskeletal pain and why?
- Ibuprofen: systemic side effects
- Diclofenac: systemic side effects
- Topical rubs: sticky hands, can potentially irritate sensitive areas
Is paracetamol safe in pregnancy?
Yes
Is paracetamol safe in breastfeeding?
Yes
What is the age range for paracetamol?
Safe in children over 1 month
What are 3 pieces of non-pharmacological advice for soft tissue injuries/musculoskeletal pain?
- RICE: Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation
- No HARM: Heat, Alcohol, Running, Massage
- After 24-48 hours of RICE management, gently mobilise the joint or limb and remove the compression bandage.
What are 6 specific questions to ask if a patient has a soft tissue injury/musculoskeletal pain?
- When the injury occurred
- What precipitated the injury
- The level of discomfort
- Any restriction in range of motion
- Whether the injury appears to be worsening
- Expectations of the patient
