Most of us know it as ‘aches and pains,’ but mild musculoskeletal pain and inflammation are common issues that can affect anyone at any time.

Whether it’s that nagging ache in your lower back after a long day at work or the stiffness in your knees when you get out of bed, these discomforts can interrupt daily life. Fortunately, your community pharmacist is here to help you manage these everyday health conditions effectively.

What Is mild musculoskeletal pain and inflammation?

Mild musculoskeletal pain refers to discomfort that originates from muscles, bones, tendons, ligaments or joints. Inflammation occurs when these areas become irritated or swollen, often as a response to injury or overuse. Together, they can make movement uncomfortable, impacting your overall quality of life.

Common causes of mild musculoskeletal pain

Understanding what triggers your pain can help you manage it more effectively. Some of the most common causes include:

  • Injury: A fall, sprain or strain can lead to temporary pain and inflammation.
  • Overuse: Repetitive motions from activities like typing, playing sports or heavy lifting can cause discomfort.
  • Poor posture: Slouching or sitting in an awkward position for extended periods can lead to muscle strain.
  • Ageing: As we age, our bodies naturally lose strength and flexibility, making us more susceptible to pain.
  • Conditions like arthritis: Even mild forms of arthritis can cause inflammation and discomfort in joints.

Man with lower back pain

Types of mild musculoskeletal pain

Mild musculoskeletal pain can vary in type and intensity. Some common forms include:

  • Tendinitis: Inflammation of the tendons, where muscles attach to bones, often due to overuse.
  • Bursitis: Inflammation of the small sacs (bursae) that cushion the joints.
  • Muscle strains: Overstretching or tearing of muscle fibres can lead to pain and stiffness.
  • Joint pain: This can occur from various causes, including injury or inflammation from conditions like osteoarthritis.

While mild musculoskeletal pain can often be managed at home, it’s important to know when to seek further help. If you experience severe pain, swelling or difficulty moving a joint, don’t hesitate to consult your community pharmacist.

How your community pharmacist can help 

Your local community pharmacist is a valuable resource for managing mild musculoskeletal pain and inflammation. Here are several ways they can assist:

  • Expert advice: Pharmacists can help assess your symptoms and recommend appropriate over-the-counter pain relief options or topical analgesics.
  • Medication management: Trained community pharmacists can prescribe for a range of everyday health conditions, and can also provide advice on therapeutic adaptations and substitutions to ensure you receive the most effective and appropriate treatment.
  • Continued dispensing: If you have a recurring issue, your pharmacist can help you manage your medication and, for some medications, ensure you have access to what you need without unnecessary delays.
  • Personalised care: Your pharmacist may be able to suggest lifestyle changes, exercises or stretches to help alleviate your pain and improve mobility, or provide tips for maintaining good posture or ergonomics in your daily activities.

By working closely with your community pharmacist, you can gain greater access to high-quality primary healthcare services, making it easier to manage your condition effectively.

Your community pharmacist can do more

If you’re dealing with mild musculoskeletal pain and inflammation, remember that your community pharmacist is ready to support you. They can provide the advice, treatment options and management strategies you need to help alleviate your discomfort and improve your daily life. Don’t let pain hold you back—find a pharmacy near you today!

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