Pain in muscles and joints are common and seldom need to be treated by a doctor.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

  • Stiffness and pain especially with movement

CAUSES

  • Strain due to overexertion
  • Injury
  • Inflammation
  • Wear and tear

TREATMENT AT HOME FOR MUSCLE PAIN

  • Massage affected part and keep it warm
  • Rest
  • Take painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen

TREATMENT AT HOME FOR JOINT PAIN

  • Rest the sore joint
  • Take painkillers as for muscle pain

STRAINS AND SPRAINS

RICE –
Rest the injured part.
Ice wrapped in a cloth – or a bag of frozen peas – can be used to reduce the swelling. But do not apply for longer than 15 minutes at a time.
Compress the injury gently with a bandage.
Elevate the injured part.

WHEN TO SEE YOUR DOCTOR

  • If the pain in the joint or muscle does not improve after three days
  • If the joint looks deformed
  • If there is swelling
  • If mobility is badly affected