Use of Topical NSAIDs in Acute Musculoskeletal Sports Injury: A Brief Review

The objective of this chapter is to summarize the current standards of pain management in minor sports-related musculoskeletal injuries. This chapter also addresses the topical form of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug as an effective pain management option in an outpatient setting. Design: Quantitive systematic review of randomized controlled trials. Methods: The data was obtained through literature review of articles published in the last 10 years. In addition, FDA information on non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications was also reviewed. The patient population studied in the articles included children and adults. Conclusion: Current standards of managing pain resulting from sports injuries involve a number of analgesic drugs including non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. The topical form of this class of drugs is an effective method for pain management of minor musculoskeletal sports-related injuries.