RESEARCH--Don't Use NSAIDS Frequently Or For Long Term

Avoid excessive NSAID use. 
(8-18) You couldn’t be a lifelong runner without at least occasional muscle aches, joint pains, and lower-back stiffness. All of which bring us directly to the use of NSAIDS--Non Steroidal Anti Inflammatory Drugs. These include aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, and diclofenac, among others.
A recent paper in the International Journal of Pharmacy Practice found that 70.9 percent of runners used NSAIDS, primarily for its expected anti-inflammatory effect (a reason named by 88 percent of users) and for pain relief (named by 40 percent of respondents).
But should runners use NSAIDS for these and other reasons? Most physicians and sports medicine experts agree that
the answer is no--at least not frequently or for prolonged periods of time. Why not? Because NSAID use is associated with increased gastrointestinal bleeding and risk of a heart-related event.
“In my practice I rarely prescribe or recommend NSAIDS,” wrote podiatrist and running expert Dr. Brian Fullem in a recent post on AthleteBiz.us “I prefer ice as my main anti-inflammatory. When I do recommend an NSAID, it is most commonly only for a 3-5 day trial.”
One reason for the short-term use: All NSAIDS tend to “hide” the true nature of the injury, making it harder to diagnose and treat. “When a runner is injured, it is important to address the cause of the injury and not just treat the symptoms,” notes Fullem, author of the book, The Runner’s Guide to Healthy Feet and Ankles.
Indeed, some research now indicates that NSAID use may be detrimental to muscle healing. So think twice about NSAIDS. In particular, don’t use them on a continuing basis.
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