Understanding the problem
Understanding the problem
Customers who ask for a topical painkiller will often be doing so as a result of a physical activity that has gone wrong. This may be because of an accident, exercising without warming up first, using equipment wrongly, having incorrect technique or pushing the body beyond what it can cope with.
Any of these can result in an injury such as the ones described below:
Sprains are caused by abnormal or excessive force being applied to a joint, injuring the ligament. Commonly affected joints include the knees, ankles and wrists.
Strains occur when muscle fibres are stretched or torn as a result of being extended beyond their limits. The knees, legs and back are frequently affected.
A dislocation can occur when a joint, such as the shoulder, is moved beyond its normal range of motion. Dislocation often results in ligament damage.
Tendonitis is inflammation of the tendons that attach two bones. Tendonitis is usually caused by sudden, sharp movements or repetitive exercise, such as running, jumping or throwing. It is a common injury in the elbow for those who play tennis or golf.
DOMS (delayed onset muscle soreness) is caused by over-exercising a muscle or using muscles that are not used to it. Experiencing aching muscles in the days following exercise is different from “the burn” that might be felt during exercise itself. While aching muscles during active exercise is thought to be caused by a build-up of lactic acid, the soreness felt following exercise is commonly believed to arise from micro-damage caused to the muscle and the inflammation that follows.
Some customers may also seek advice on topical pain relief because they suffer from osteoarthritis. This condition is caused by damage to the cartilage in a joint which results in swelling, pain and stiffness.
Preventing sports injuries
Warming up properly before exercise might seem unnecessary, but it serves an important function in preparing the body for the demands of exercise. It makes synovial fluid less jelly-like and more of a liquid consistency, which means the joints are better lubricated. It also increases blood flow to the muscles, tendons and ligaments. A good warm up could start with marching on the spot for three minutes and should be done before any stretching exercises
Using the right equipment, such as choosing running shoes rather than fashion trainers for jogging. It is also important to learn the correct technique for the sport being undertaken by getting advice from a coach or healthcare professional
Not pushing the body beyond what it can do and taking rest periods and days to allow the body to recover will help to avoid pain and injury
Stretching muscles to improve flexibility, before and after exercise
Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water before and after exercise, as well as during, if needed. This will help to replace the fluids lost through sweating and prevent complications from developing
When to refer
There are certain red flag symptoms to be aware of. The pharmacist should be alerted if a customer reports any of the following:
- A joint or limb that looks deformed
- A joint that is too painful to move or cannot bear weight
- Severe swelling or bleeding
- Persistent joint pain, tenderness or swelling
- Prolonged or severe morning stiffness
- Tingling or numbness
- Sudden or severe pain
- Anyone who is taking any type of medication
- A suspected fracture, dislocation, rupture or other serious injury.