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NSAIDs: Help or Hindrance in Rehab?

This is a review article for physical therapists. It's about nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). NSAIDs are the most common drugs given to physical therapy patients. In fact, 73 million prescriptions are written every year for NSAIDs. Many patients are also taking over-the-counter NSAIDs. These include drugs such as aspirin, ibuprofen, Aleve, Advil, Motrin, and others.

NSAIDs are used to reduce pain and inflammation and reduce body temperature. They are used most often by patients with pain from gout, arthritis, and soft tissue injuries. They also decrease blood clotting. Some NSAIDS are used in small amounts to prevent strokes and heart attacks.

The benefits of NSAIDs are sometimes outweighed by the adverse effects. Besides stomach problems, these drugs can cause skin, kidney, and nervous system disorders. Stomach ulcers, poor wound healing, and dizziness are just a few of the more common side effects.

The author of this report reviews the different categories of NSAIDs. The report tells how the various NSAIDs work. It explains how NSAIDs produce their effects (good and bad). How and why drugs work is called pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics.

Knowing about NSAIDs is important in a physical therapy practice. Since so many physical therapy patients are taking NSAIDs, therapists must know what to watch for as possible toxic side effects. The effects of these drugs can slow or even prevent patients from recovering in rehab.

References: Ross E. Biederman, DPM. Pharmacology in Rehabilitation: Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Agents. In Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy. June 2005. Vol. 35. No. 6. Pp. 356-367.

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