Whether you're an athlete or a weekend warrior, you'll want to perform at your best and enjoy the game. What you don't want are muscle aches or injuries holding you down.

You might love your exercise or sport, but as you get older you may sometimes notice more aches and pains after the game. These reduce your enjoyment and may even make it difficult to keep moving the next day.

While a proper warm-up and cool-down are essential to help prevent injury, it’s important to also treat muscle aches or pain after a game so you can stay active and ready for the next workout.

TOP TIPS FOR PREVENTING SPORT INJURIES

• Warm up, cool down and stretch: As part of your warm-up, include some aerobic exercise and sport-specific stretches for the sport you play.
• Learn correct techniques: Depending on your sport, learn the correct way to tackle, jump, land or stop in your tracks. Continually practice these techniques to avoid bad habits creeping in.
• Be properly equipped: Wear appropriate footwear for the activity, in relation to cushioning and flexibility. Make sure any racquets, bats, golf clubs, balls or weights are also suited to your size and shape.
• Treat any injuries promptly: If you get a sprain or strain, follow the RICER method (rest, ice, compression, elevation, referral) for the first 48 hours after an injury. And ask your pharmacist for advice on medicines to reduce pain and assist recovery.

MANAGING SPORTS INJURIES
If you do extend your muscles or tendons during a game, cold therapy may be effective.

It’s important you start this as soon as possible, and continue for 2-3 days after the injury to help reduce further tissue damage and inflammation.

VOLTAREN EMULGEL, SPECIALISED PAIN RELIEF
Voltaren Emulgel soothes aching muscles after a game, so you can keep moving and prepare your body for its next excursion.

Voltaren Emulgel is a medicated anti-inflammatory rub, formulated to help temporarily relieve pain and reduce swelling in soft tissue injuries.

It contains the active ingredient diclofenac, which penetrates the skin to reach the source of pain.

It’s cool to apply and can be used daily for up to two weeks in managing acute pain.*

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*Voltaren Emulgel, diclofenac diethylammonium 1%. For short term treatment of acute inflammatory conditions. Medicines have benefits and some may have risks. Always read the label and use only as directed. Do not use if you have a stomach ulcer. Incorrect use could be harmful. If your symptoms persist or you have side effects, consult your healthcare professional. Novartis Consumer Health, Australasia. TAPS PP5347


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