Acute inflammation after injury. Quick control speeds rehabilitation.

Acute inflammation is an important part of the healing process after musculoskeletal injury, but unless it is controlled early, it can significantly hamper rehabilitation. Simple physical methods, such as immediate application of ice and adequate rest for the injured site, may be all that is required in mild injury. For more severe cases, ultrasound and electrical stimulation methods may be needed. Medical therapy also helps control inflammation and relieve pain. Nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs reduce swelling, but effects may not be seen for several days in severe cases, and gastrointestinal side effects are not uncommon. Therefore, analgesics alone should be used if pain is the only symptom. Adjunctive corticosteroid injections are often beneficial but require precautions and the cooperation of the patient. When inflammation is controlled and the repair process is under way, therapeutic exercises should be prescribed to restore range of motion, strength, and endurance. The injured site should be protected (eg, taped) during exercise until rehabilitation is complete.