WINTER is here and Scotland’s 111 service has seen an increase in calls relating to muscle aches, as well as joint and bone injuries.
As part of the national winter Healthy Know How campaign, NHS 24 is advising people how to safely treat common musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions.
These conditions include such back pain, wrist ache and twisted ankles, and treating them safely means you can still enjoy the holidays with family and friends.
Dr Ronald Cook, NHS 24’s associate medical director says: “During winter, we always see an increase in calls relating to muscle, joint and bone injuries – often because of slips, trips and falls in bad weather.
“People can suffer a wide range of symptoms from minor discomfort right through to severe pain but a lot of the time these types of injuries will naturally heal and with safe treatment at home, don’t need a trip to the hospital.
“We have recently updated NHS Inform’s MSK pages with the most up to date advice on how to look after this type of injury, and also when and where to seek further help if the issue needs urgent attention or symptoms are not improving.
“It’s a fantastic resource and I would recommend anyone with an MSK issue to visit NHS inform first to help them get the right care, in the right place.”
Dr Cook’s advice compliments the national winter health campaign Healthy Know How.
The campaign provides advice on how to stay well and enjoy the festivities, avoiding the need to get medical help over the holidays.
Tips include knowing how to stay on top of prescriptions, preparing for common illnesses, knowing how to check symptoms if you become unwell and knowing how to get the right care in the right place.
Order only what is needed and in plenty of time before the festive holidays, ensure the medicine cupboard is well stocked. NHS inform’s symptom checkers can give you all the health advice you need online.
Further medical advice can be found during the week by contacting your GP, pharmacist, dentist or optometrist. For out of hours or during holiday closures call NHS 24 on 111.
