Long Duration Continuous Ultrasound with Diclofenac Sodium Enhances Recovery from Sprains and Strains

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics
• Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Musculoskeletal sprains and strains result in inflammation and scar tissue, impairing healing due to poor blood supply.
• Diclofenac Sodium is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) with analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Low-intensity continuous ultrasound (LICUS) therapy enhances blood flow and oxygenation, promoting tissue healing and drug delivery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the synergistic effects of LICUS and a 2.5% diclofenac sodium ultrasound gel patch.
• To evaluate the treatment's efficacy in managing ankle and elbow strains and sprains.

Main Methods:

• A pilot study involved 8 participants with untreated ankle or elbow strain/sprain.
• Baseline measurements included range of motion (ROM), numerical rating scale (NRS) pain score, and global rating of change (GroC) score.
• Participants received daily 4-hour treatments of LICUS + 2.5% diclofenac for 14 days.

Main Results:

• Mean ROM increased by 28% (p<0.0001), from 67.5% to 95%.
• Mean NRS pain score significantly decreased by 2.75 points (from 7.25).
• Mean GroC score improved by 6.34 points, indicating significant positive change.

Conclusions:

• LICUS combined with diclofenac demonstrates synergistic effects for treating ankle and elbow strains/sprains.
• The treatment effectively reduces pain and improves ROM, GRoC, and overall quality of life.
• No adverse effects were reported in this pilot study.