From the Research
Doing physical therapy without knowing the extent of an injury can be dangerous and is not recommended, as it may worsen the condition or lead to further injury. The recommended initial management for an undiagnosed injury prior to starting physical therapy is to follow a conservative approach that prioritizes patient safety and prevents further harm.
- Protect the injured area from further harm by limiting movement and avoiding activities that cause pain.
- Rest the injury for 24-48 hours to prevent additional damage.
- Apply ice for 15-20 minutes every 2-3 hours during the first 48-72 hours to reduce swelling and pain.
- Use compression with an elastic bandage wrapped snugly but not too tight to further control swelling.
- Elevate the injured area above heart level when possible to minimize fluid accumulation. Over-the-counter pain medications like acetaminophen (500-1000mg every 4-6 hours, not exceeding 4000mg daily) or NSAIDs such as ibuprofen (400-800mg every 6-8 hours with food) can help manage pain and inflammation, as seen in general medical practice 1. It's essential to obtain a proper diagnosis through medical evaluation before beginning formal physical therapy, as inappropriate exercises could worsen certain conditions, and physical therapists can play a crucial role in ordering diagnostic imaging safely and appropriately 2. This initial management works by controlling the inflammatory response, preventing additional tissue damage, and creating optimal conditions for the healing process to begin, which is in line with the goal of reducing patient harm and improving outcomes 3. In cases where the mechanism of injury is significant, it's crucial to exercise caution and consider the potential for major trauma, although mechanism of injury alone may not be a reliable predictor of major trauma 4.