Top Tips for Acute Pain
The severity of the pain is not usually an indicator of how serious the injury is. Most people who are in extremely acute pain have simple protective muscle spasm which can usually be relieved quite quickly. Use Ice Inflammation is always present in an acute condition. This causes the joints to swell and to be very painful. Use ice to minimise the inflammatory response and help to reduce the secondary effects of an injury. Place a cold gel pack (if you have one) or a packet of frozen peas, wrapped in a thin tea towel, over the painful area. Apply it for 15 minutes at a time with at least 1 hour between. Do not use, without proper medical advice, if you are diabetic or if you have poor circulation. The use of heat will increase the inflammation and can make things worse, this includes wallowing in a hot bath. Keep Mobile
Rest as Comfortably as You Can Find the position that is most comfortable for you. There is no right or wrong – just do whatever feels best. For most people lying on your back with your knees bent up and supported is fairly comfortable. Lying on a hard surface with your legs out straight will tend to increase the loads at the base of your back. Accept Help Don't be proud. Let family or friends look after you – you can always return the compliment later. Listen To Your Back
Pain is a warning sign. Your body is telling you that you have already
or are about to cause damage. If what you are doing hurts then STOP.
Do not try to push through the pain. Use Medication Wisely All drugs have side effects so they should be used wisely. The use of pain killers (paracetamol, cocodomol etc.) and non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (Ibubrofen, diclofenac etc.) only helps to mask the symptoms and not to deal with the cause of the problem. Do not take medication to take you through the pain so that you can do something, you will only make matters worse. Consult Your Chiropractor The earlier you are seen the better. That way any underlying mechanical problem can be addressed, the injury can be treated and the healing processess can start. An acute injury is usually the result of a chronic underlying condition of which you may not have been aware of. The acute pain comes on when you overload the system that one time too many. This needs to be identified and corrected to help prevent any future recurrences. |
Don't
Panic
At
least, as mobile as you can. If you can you should get up and move
around at regular intervals. If you remain still for too
long you will seize up and prolong the agony.
