Pulled muscle at the gym? Take Tylenol.

Acute musculoskeletal pain includes sprains and strains and accounts for more than 65 million health care visits annually. As we emerge from the pandemic and return to the gym eager to get back into shape, we’re likely to experience more of these injuries. Historically, opioids have frequently been prescribed for acute musculoskeletal pain relief. 25% of persons presenting to an emergency room with an ankle sprain receive an opioid prescription. A new guideline from the American College of Physicians and the American Academy of Family Practice specifically recommends against clinicians prescribing opioids for acute musculoskeletal pain. The guideline suggests topical nonsteroidal drugs or Tylenol as preferred choices. Strains and sprains get better with time and simple treatment. The serious adverse consequences of opioids aren’t worth the risk.