Rx Note

Introduction A sprain is an injury involving the overstretching or tearing of ligaments and/or the joint capsule. In contrast, a strain occurs when muscle fibers or tendons are damaged due to overstretching or tearing. PRICE Therapy Minor sprains and strains can usually be managed at home using PRICE therapy for the first 48 to 72 hours. The primary goal is to minimize swelling. If swelling is not controlled, the resulting pressure can limit mobility, lead to long-term muscle atrophy (wasting), and delay the overall recovery process. Protection Protect the affected area from further trauma, for example, by using a brace or support. Rest Avoid strenuous exercise and reduce daily physical activity. Use aids like crutches or a walking stick for lower limb injuries, or a sling for shoulder injuries, to offload weight. Ice Ice packs reduce the metabolic needs of the tissues, reduce blood flow and result in less tissue damage and swelling. Apply an ice pack to the affected area for 15-20 min...

Introduction A bruise (also known as contusion) is an injury appearing as an area of discoloured skin that is commonly caused by blunt impact , such as a fall, trauma or bump, resulting in damage of the soft tissues, including rupture of small blood vessels (capillaries) without cuts on the skin . Older people are more prone to bruising. NOTE: A haematoma is a larger collection of blood, usually caused by surgery, injury or greater trauma. Like a bruise, haematomas will usually be reabsorbed into the body. However, depending on the size, location and cause of the haematoma, the area may need to be drained surgically or take a longer period of time to resolve. Symptoms The blunt force trauma damages capillaries beneath the skin, causing blood to leak into the surrounding tissue. Skin discolouration is initially red or pink, gradually becoming blue, green and yellow. Most bruises heal in 1 to 2 weeks, but some take longer. NOTE: The characteristic colour changes of a bruise are due to...

Introduction Low back pain affects 60-80% of people at some stage in their lives ( most common between the ages of 35 and 55 years) and is often recurrent . Acute back pain is generally regarded as lasting less than 6 weeks, subacute for 6-12 weeks and chronic longer than 12 weeks. Clinical Features Pain in the lower lumbar or sacral area is usually described as aching or stiffness. Depending on the cause, pain might be localized or more diffuse. In case of acute injury, the symptoms come on quickly, and there will be a reduction in mobility. Risk Factors Heavy physical work Frequent bending, twisting or lifting Prolonged static postures Smoking Obesity Physical inactivity NOTE: Low back pain can be caused by gastrointestinal problems (e.g. peptic ulcer or pancreatitis) or genitourinary conditions (e.g. kidney stones , pyelonephritis) but low back pain is not the major presenting symptom. Management Most patients (95%) who present in the pharmacy will have simple back pain that wi...

Introduction Crepitus refers to popping, cracking or clicking sounds that originate from a joint. These noises are commonly felt in the knees, but they can occur in any joint. Causes Often, it can be harmless. The sound itself simply indicates air bubbles forming and bursting in the joint fluid, which can happen even in healthy joints. However, when it is associated with pain, inflammation or discomfort, this can indicate an underlying medical condition , such as Osteoarthritis Meniscus tears Ligament injuries Tendonitis Patellofemoral pain syndrome Baker's cyst Management Joint noises themselves do not necessarily indicate a serious problem and do not require treatment. However, if you have crepitus along with pain, swelling or discomfort, it is important seek immediate medical attention for evaluation. They can determine the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment, which may involve Rest Ice application NSAIDs Physical therapy Surgery (in certain cases) External Link...

Introduction Fatigue is a term used to describe subjective tiredness or exhaustion. It is common in the general population, particularly in elderly and those with certain health problems. Classification Fatigue may be classified based on duration. Acute fatigue Lasts up to 6 months. Most often attributable to an acute medical condition or recent life stressor. Chronic fatigue Persists ≥6 months. Likely to be associated with an underlying chronic medical or psychological condition, medical toxicity or substance use. Management Fatigue is a common, nonspecific symptom with a broad range of aetiologies. Physiologic fatigue is norma l and defined as a reaction to intense and/or prolonged activity that is relieved with rest and typically does not affect activities of daily living. Target therapy to the causative condition or disease if one is found. Consider general advice, including Good sleep hygiene Healthy diet Exercise External Links DynaMed - Fatigue - Approach to the Patient UpToDate...