Pain in muscles and joints are common and seldom need to be treated by a doctor.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR
*Stiffness and pain especially with movement

CAUSES
* Strain due to overexertion
* Injury
* Inflammation
* Wear and tear

TREATMENT AT HOME FOR MUSCLE PAIN
* Massage affected part and keep it warm
* Rest
* Take painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen

TREATMENT AT HOME FOR JOINT PAIN
* Rest the sore joint
* Take painkillers as for muscle pain

STRAINS AND SPRAINS

RICE -	Rest the injured part
	Ice wrapped in a cloth - or a bag of frozen peas - can be used to reduce the swelling Compress the injury gently with a bandage Elevate the injured part

WHEN TO SEE YOUR DOCTOR
* If the pain in the joint or muscle does not improve after three days
* If the joint looks deformed
* If there is swelling
* If mobility is badly affected