When muscle or back pain strikes, many people make the mistake of ignoring the warning signals, hoping the problem will just get better.

If you are suffering from muscle or back pain you need to treat the pain and inflammation as soon as possible. Ignoring the warnings could lead to a much slower recovery and even ongoing pain.

And did you know that bed rest is not usually the best option when you’re recovering from muscle injury or back pain? Inactivity can cause stiffness and may actually prolong the pain. But you also don’t want to overdo things
and cause further injury, so heading straight back onto the sports field is
not recommended.

MANAGING YOUR INJURY
The best course of action to help speed up your recovery, is to keep moving, without reigniting your injury. You may also need to reduce pain and inflammation with a fast and effective treatment, to help your body move more freely.
If you follow the advice of a healthcare professional you may be able to gently exercise the injured muscle or joint to help maintain your fitness while on the sideline.

If you get a sprain or strain, follow the RICER method (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation, Referral) for the first 48 hours.

And talk to your pharmacist about Voltaren® Emulgel to help reduce pain and inflammation.

STRETCHING IS IMPORTANT
Stretching before exercise can help loosen and flex the muscles and get blood flowing where it’s needed. Different sports and activities use different muscle groups, so its important to focus on stretching the muscles you are most likely to use.

TIPS ON STRETCHING

• Start slowly. Stretching too hard too quickly can lead to unwanted injuries, especially when muscles are cold.
• Hold each stretch for at least 30 seconds. It takes time to stretch your muscles safely. Remember to breathe during each stretch – never hold your breath.
• Make sure you also stretch after exercise. During a warm-down you’ll find your muscles are easier to stretch.
• Do not bounce. This can lead to muscle trauma and scar tissue, all of which actually tightens the muscle. Tight muscles have an increased risk of injury.

VOLTAREN® EMULGEL CAN HELP
Voltaren® Emulgel is a medicated rub for muscle and joint pain. It contains a powerful anti-inflammatory ingredient, diclofenac, which helps relieve both pain and inflammation by targeting the source of pain and concentrating its action where you need it most.

Voltaren® Emulgel has a unique formulation that makes it easy to rub in so that it is readily absorbed to help soothe aching muscles.

WHAT THE ALL BLACKS USE
All Blacks scrum coach Mike Cron says the right treatment can be the difference between getting back in the game, and sitting on the sideline.
“Sorting out both pain and inflammation is crucial. That’s why the All Blacks choose Voltaren®,” Cron says.

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Voltaren® Emulgel (diclofenac diethylammonium 1.16%) for short-term relief of local pain and inflammation. Always read the label and use only as directed. Medicines have benefits and some may have risks. If symptoms persist or if you have side effects consult your healthcare professional. Novartis Consumer Health Australasia Pty Ltd, Auckland, NZ. TAPS NA5214

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