Orthopedist Questions Sprains and Strains

How do topical sprays help in treating sprains?

I had a sprain, and after going to the doctor, my X-ray shows no fracture or swelling. My doctor advised that I use an ice pack and topical sprays on that spot. Do topical sprays really help?

9 Answers

They do very temporarily
Yes, it is work. It is local anesthesia, but it’s temporary.
They ease pain temporarily.
I am not sure what topic sprays were recommended. I usually recommend rice: rest , ice, compression and elevation. I hope this helps
Yes alter skin temperature, circulation and provide pain relief/analgesia
Topical sprays come in various varieties. Some simply import a feeling of cold onto the skin. This can be helpful in the short term. Some sprays have an anti-inflammatory effect. They can be a useful adjunct for the treatment of sprains and strains. They typically work best when combined with oral anti-inflammatory such as Motrin and Tylenol. These can also be used in combination in the vast majority of people. G.I. upset is a side effect of oral anti-inflammatory medications. Tylenol typically does not cause the side effects. And ice pack is still the gold standard of treating strains and sprains in the acute setting. Sprays however can be quite convenient and clearly have some appeal for convenience.
A little is the answer. It's got numbing meds in it, so it can help reduce pain.
Yes they do help ease the pain. They are frequently used by athletic trainers and physical therapists in dealing with both acute and chronic injuries.
They can help.