On CBC Radio FM 97.2's 30 Minutes with Nkwen Baptist Hospital, host Shey Silas discusses common injury management mistakes with physiotherapists Ambe Fabrice and Baka Becky.

Overview and Key Definitions

• An injury is damage to a tissue, organ, or body system, whereas a wound is an open break in the skin; injuries can be internal without any visible wound.
• Injuries can stem from sudden events like falls and sports, or build up over time through cumulative strain from prolonged sitting or heavy lifting.
• Physiotherapists utilize scientifically trained diagnostics and treatment plans, whereas traditional bone setters rely on unverified community methods.

Common Injury Management Mistakes

• Delaying Care: Attempting self-treatment and delaying professional medical consultation slows down recovery.
• Applying Heat: Bathing in hot water, using hot packs, or applying warm compresses to new injuries increases blood flow, which worsens swelling and pain.
• Early Painkiller or Anti-Inflammatory Use: Taking drugs such as ibuprofen, diclofenac, tramadol, or corticosteroids within the first 72 hours suppresses natural inflammatory processes required for proper tissue healing.
• Alcohol Consumption: Drinking excess alcohol hides pain signals, causing individuals to overexert injured limbs and delay recovery.
• Massaging the Injured Area: Massaging acute injuries or fractures damages surrounding tissues, risks displacing bones, and uncertified joint manipulations can cause nerve damage.

Recommendations for Proper Care

• Physiotherapy applies to all age groups and professions, serving both corrective and preventive functions.
• Seeking early medical advice or routine musculoskeletal checkups prevents long-term complications and supports proper structural healing.