Management of Acute Pain From Non–Low Back Musculoskeletal Injuries: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-analysis of Randomized Trials
Review of 207 studies (total n= 32,959) found that topical NSAIDs, followed by oral NSAIDs and paracetamol with or without diclofenac, showed the most convincing benefit–harm ratio. No opioid achieved benefit greater than NSAIDs, and opioids caused the most harms.
Source:
Annals of Internal Medicine
Resource links:
US Guideline for the management of acute pain from non–low back, musculoskeletal injuries in adults
SPS commentary:
The results of this meta-analysis guided the production of US guidance from the American College of Physicians and American Academy of Family Physicians on the management of acute pain from non–low back, musculoskeletal injuries in adults. They recommend topical NSAIDs as first line treatment.