Immediate phase - managing pain

• OBJECTIVES

• IMMEDIATE PHASE

• circulation evaluation
• wound evaluation
• neurological evaluation
• PRICE/RICE regime
• managing pain
• managing circulation
• maintaining quads tone
• EARLY PHASE - IN BED
• EARLY PHASE - MOBILE
• INTERMEDIATE PHASE
• LATE PHASE
• GLOSSARY OF EXERCISES

Knee pain is normal after injury or surgery, but extreme pain and swelling may indicate that there is tense bleeding within the knee that may need draining.

Acute pain may respond well to the PRICE/RICE regime as this regime reduces the swelling and inflammation that leads to pain. Simple painkillers may be used for pain and anti-inflammatory tablets for inflammation.

Pain in the knee can also be triggered when the knee is under stress by 'knots' in the muscles around the knee - so-called trigger points. Massage of these trigger points may offer considerable pain relief.