Medications can be used as part of a comprehensive management programme for people with musculoskeletal complaints. Medications can be topical, oral, suppositories or given by injection.
Examples of medicines that are used to aid recovery include those that:
- Provide pain relief
- Reduce inflammation
- Strengthen bones
- Promote healing
- Improve sleep
- Reduce fatigue
There are many forms of pain relieving medications that can be used together or alone. Some are suited to short term use only, and others are used longer term. Any choice of medicine is influenced by the characteristics of the patient, their treatment preferences, other medical conditions and the potential risks.
There continues to be significant advances in the development of new medications for the management of arthritis, injuries, bone health and pain and emerging advances in drug development should always be considered in formulating the best management plan for the patient.
Supplements and natural therapies may also be used in the management of many musculoskeletal complaints. This is an area of much research and overlaps with nutritional approaches.
