The Pharmaceutical Journal
Vol 276 No 7403 p655-656
3 June 2006

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Should NSAIDs be routinely used in the treatment of sprains and strains?

Although non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs have been used as first-line treatment for sprains and strains in the past, their use needs to be evaluated given the current evidence available which suggests a potential for problems, says Rhiannon Braund

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SUMMARY

Sprains and strains of the ankle are the most common sporting injury, and ankle strains alone are reported to account for 15 per cent of all sports injuries. While these types of injuries are usually considered minor, they may be significant due to their frequency and symptoms, and should be taken seriously due to their potential to cause chronic pain, swelling and functional instability. Measures such as rest, ice, and compression are crucial to aid healing and pharmacists are often approached to suggest and provide drug treatments to reduce pain and inflammation.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen and diclofenac, have been used immediately post-injury and have been considered to be the best drug treatment due to their analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects. However, there is accumulating evidence that the short-term benefits of NSAIDs are outweighed by adverse effects on long-term healing. This is because inflammation is a necessary part of the healing process. Without it healing cannot take place.