Anti-inflammatory ointments are used to treat pain and decrease inflammation of muscles, tendons and joints caused by problems such as arthritis, low back pain, tendonitis, sprains, muscle strains and epicondylitis, for example.
However, they can also be used for toothache or after minor strokes or falls that cause swelling, redness, bruising and pain when touching the area.
The ointments cost on average between $ 15 and $ 40, depending on the ointment and the amount and are usually found in pharmacies.
Indications for the use of anti-inflammatory ointments
The use of anti-inflammatory ointments is indicated for situations where there is pain and inflammation of a muscle, tendon or joint, which causes symptoms such as redness, swelling, difficulty in moving and discomfort.
For example, it may be necessary to apply anti-inflammatory ointment after exerting a lot of effort in the gym after a knock, in tendonitis, low back pain or in skin diseases.
- Muscle pain: some ointments indicated for muscle pain are Calminex, Gelol and Diclofenac, also known as Voltaren or Cataflan;
- Tendonitis: To treat tendonitis, ointments containing Feldene and Calminex may be indicated - learn how to cure tendinitis faster;
- Twisting: both ankle and foot twisting can be treated with the use of Gelol and Diclofenac, for example;
- Pain in the spine: The anti-inflammatory ointment containing Diclofenac, for example, is an option to treat back pain. In addition, Biofenac or Gelol, for example;
- Arthritis: Symptoms of arthritis can be alleviated with the use of anti-inflammatory ointments containing ketoprofen, Felbinaco or Piroxicam, also known as Feldene.
The use of anti-inflammatory ointments does not dispense with going to the doctor when any of these pains arise. In addition, the use of ointments should only be done under the guidance of a health professional, such as a doctor, nurse or pharmacist, as there are many ointments and their effects vary according to the problem identified. Thus, a health professional can indicate the best ointment for each symptom.
How to use ointments
The mode of use of the anti-inflammatory ointments depends on each case and so before using any ointment it is necessary to read the package insert.
Usually the use consists of applying the ointment to the sore area, doing a small circular massage in the painful region until the ointment is completely absorbed by the skin.
The ointment should be applied 2 or 3 times a day and, if the pain is not eliminated within 1 week, the doctor should go to the doctor because insisting on the ointment may mask the symptoms of another disease. treatment is required.
Side effects
Some side effects of anti-inflammatory ointments include skin irritation that can cause itching and redness.
Contraindications
Usually the use of anti-inflammatory ointments are contraindications in open wounds, and in case of allergy to any component of the formula.
