Sports medicine is a broad field that encompasses everything from concussions to broken bones. While some sports injuries require urgent care, most minor cuts and strains can be treated at home with rest and pharmacy supplies. To help you decide what to pick up at the drug store, here are some of the most common minor injuries caused by exercise and how to treat them.

How to Treat Minor Sports Injuries

1. Hamstring Strains

The hamstring, which is located in the back of the thigh, is comprised of three muscles. Extending your leg too far when performing any kind of physical activity can strain these muscles, causing pain. While they’ll heal on their own, you can speed up your recovery by resting, icing the area, wrapping it with a compression brace, and elevating your leg. This approach is known as RICE, a healing regimen often used by sports medicine experts to treat muscle strain. 

2. Epicondylitis 

Also known as tennis elbow, epicondylitis is an inflammation of the tendons in the arm. It’s caused by repetitive strain due to movement, and can develop even if you don’t play tennis. Like other minor sports injuries, it will heal on its own, but you can relieve the pain by icing the area for 20 to 30 minutes every three to four hours, wearing an elbow strap, and performing gentle stretches such as arm circles to reduce stiffness. 

3. Shin Splints

Shin splints are a common overuse injury frequently seen in runners. They are characterized by inflammation of the muscles and tendons surrounding the tibia. To facilitate your recovery, perform the RICE technique and wear supportive insoles. While your body heals, you may want to take anti-inflammatory painkillers like ibuprofen and aspirin to reduce the pain. If your pain is severe even after you take painkillers or persists for more than two weeks, visit a sports medicine doctor. 

If you need sports medicine supplies and medications to speed up your recovery, head to Faris Pharmacy in Rochester, NY. Since 1972, this self-proclaimed old fashioned drug store has filled the community’s prescriptions, offered vaccines, equipment delivery, and even notary services. Explore all that they provide on their website, or call (585) 663-6950 to inquire about the products they have in stock.