Howard Kay Osteopath Health 4 U www.health4u.net.nz

Pain is often as a result of damaged tissue, local swelling and pressure on a nerve.

It is a warning system the body uses to signal that something is wrong, hopefully preventing you from further damaging your body, a bit like a stop signal.

If you are in pain it is a good idea to get a specific diagnosis of the cause. Osteopaths can help diagnose the cause of pain and can normally reduce it with the use of manual treatment if appropriate, or refer you to the relevant specialist.

Rice is a good option to use as well… no, not to eat, but the pneumonic of Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation. This is self-explanatory in treating strains or sprains, which are some of the more common injuries.

Rest - stop using the joint, as further activity is more likely to annoy and damage tissues associated with the joint.

Ice - helps to reduce inflammation, this is a natural part of the healing process but too much can cause damage by overstretching and straining tissues within the body.

Compression - this prevents too much of the inflammation expanding and damaging other tissues. Use a compression bandage lightly on the area, not too tight otherwise you may reduce circulation.

Elevation - this helps drain any excess fluid away from the area, reducing the swelling and so aiding a quick recovery. Ideally the elevation should be above heart level.