Question

Which of the following is recommended for the first 48 hours after injury to control pain and swelling?

1) Rest and ice
2) Heat and massage
3) Exercise and stretching
4) Medication and surgery

Answer 1

For the first 48 hours after an injury, it is generally recommended to use rest and ice to control pain and swelling. So, option 1) Rest and ice is the recommended approach

Answer 2

For the first 48 hours after an injury, the recommended plan to control pain and swelling is to follow the PRICE method, which includes Rest and ice, along with protection, compression, and elevation of the injured area.

Step-by-step explanation:

The recommended actions for the first 48 hours after an injury to control pain and swelling are Rest and ice. To elaborate, proper care for a muscle strain or injury includes the steps represented by the acronym PRICE: Protection, Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation. It's crucial to rest the injured area to promote healing while avoiding further damage. Applying ice in intervals (20 minutes on every two hours) is effective for reducing both pain and swelling. Additional steps involve compression with a stretchy bandage to minimize swelling and elevation of the injured muscle to reduce blood pooling. After the initial 48 hours, and once bleeding in the muscle stops, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be taken to further reduce inflammation and provide pain relief. It is important to note that heat packs, extensive muscle exercise, and stretching are usually incorporated into a rehabilitation plan after the acute phase of the injury has passed.