Understanding the problem

Customers who ask for a topical painkiller will often be doing so as a result of a physical activity that has gone wrong. This may be because of an accident, exercising without warming up first, using equipment incorrectly, having incorrect technique or pushing the body beyond what it can cope with. Any of these can result in an injury such as the ones described below.   

1. Sprains are caused by abnormal or excessive force being applied to a joint, injuring the ligament. Commonly affected joints include the knees, ankles and wrists
2. Strains occur when muscle fibres are stretched or torn as a result of being stretched beyond their limits. The knees, legs and back are frequently affected 
3. A dislocation can occur when a joint, such as the shoulder, is moved beyond its normal range of motion. Dislocation often results in ligament damage
4. Tendonitis is inflammation of the tendons that attach two bones. Tendonitis is usually caused by sudden, sharp movements or repetitive exercise, such as running, jumping or throwing. It is a common injury in the elbow for those who play tennis or golf
5. DOMS (delayed onset muscle soreness) is caused by over-exercising a muscle or using muscles that are not used to it. Experiencing aching muscles in the days following exercise is different from “the burn” that might be felt during exercise itself. While aching muscles during active exercise is thought to be caused by a build-up of lactic acid, the soreness felt following exercise is commonly believed to arise from micro-damage caused to the muscle and the inflammation that follows.

Some customers may also seek advice on topical pain relief because they suffer from osteoarthritis. This condition is caused by damage to the cartilage in a joint which results in swelling, pain and stiffness.