ACUTE-INFLAMMATION AFTER INJURY - QUICK CONTROL SPEEDS REHABILITATION

Acute inflammation is an important part of the healing process after m usculoskeletal injury, but unless it is controlled early, it can signi ficantly hamper rehabilitation. Simple physical methods, such as immed iate application of ice and adequate rest for the injured site, may be all that is required in mild injury. For more severe cases, ultrasoun d and electrical stimulation methods may be needed. Medical therapy al so helps control inflammation and relieve pain. Nonsteroidal anti-infl ammatory drugs reduce swelling, but effects may not be seen for severa l days in severe cases, and gastrointestinal side effects are not unco mmon. Therefore, analgesics alone should be used if pain is the only s ymptom. Adjunctive corticosteroid injections are often beneficial but require precautions and the cooperation of the patent. When inflammati on is con-trolled and the repair process is under way, therapeutic exe rcises should be prescribed to restore range of motion, strength, and endurance. The injured site should be protected (eg, taped) during exe rcise until rehabilitation is complete.