When to use anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs)?
Should we use Anti-inflammatories for soft tissue injuries?
Often after a new injury, we see lots of redness and swelling which is often accompanied with pain. Usually our first resort is to manage the swelling with neurofen or voltaren. But some research suggests that this may delay soft tissue healing, as this is the stage where most healing takes place¹
First, what are NSAID’s?
Non-Steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) are very commonly prescribed and recommended to help manage and control pain through the regulation of inflammation and can be sold over the counter.
What you may not know is that there are 2 types, being selective and non-selective which act differently on the body.
Common NSAID’s include:
Non-selective
- Diclofenac (Voltaren)
- Ibuprofen (Neurofen, Advil)
- Aspirin
Selective
- Mobic (Meloxicam)
- Celebrex
What does the research suggest?
A recent research review has looked into the role of anti-inflammatories for soft tissue injuries. This includes ligaments, meniscus, cartilage and tendons.
Although the research is limited, it is suggested that selective anti-inflammatories have a potential negative effect on tissue healing when compared to non-selective. In addition to this there is emerging evidence to suggest that non-selective anti-inflammatories also may negatively impact our bodies ability to heal a new injury.
Our Recommendations
After a new injury, pain can be nasty and uncomfortable and many of us will seek pharmaceutical intervention to settle these symptoms. It is important to remember that pain, swelling and redness is completely normal for 48-72 hours after a new injury. A consultation with one of our physiotherapists will be able to set you off on the right path.
With the current research, it is not clear, but it is important to be aware that all anti-inflammatories may have a negative impact on our body’s healing and perhaps should not be our first line of defence² It must also be remembered medications have other health side effects and should always be taken with precaution.
If you are unsure what may be beneficial for you, we recommend consulting with your GP or local pharmacist.
References
- Chen, M.R., Dragoo, J.L. (2013) The effect of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs on tissue healing. Knee Surg Sports Traumatol Arthrosc 21, 540–549
- Ghosh N, Kolade OO, Shontz E et al (2019) Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) and their Effects on Musculoskeletal Soft-Tissue Healing: A Scoping Review. JBJS Rev, 7(12)