Musculoskeletal Outcomes Using Tylenol/Ibuprofen vs. Oral Steroids in New Injuries

Musculoskeletal Outcomes Using Tylenol/Ibuprofen vs. Oral Steroids in New Injuries

In this pilot study, the investigators aim to compare two short-term pain relief methods administered over the course of 6 days in the setting of acute musculoskeletal (MSK) pain:

1. Methylprednisolone((Medrol)dose pack- standard taper per dose pack instructions
2. Standard of Care (SOC) which includes a combination of Acetaminophen (Tylenol)+Ibuprofen (Motrin)

The investigators are interested in studying pain relief regimens for acute injury of any body part among an adult orthopaedic urgent care population.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Adults 18+
• Able to answer survey questions in English
• MSK pain > 3 on the VAS scale in any body part
• Invited to participate by and enrolling clinician

Exclusion Criteria:

• > 2 weeks from pain onset
• Fractures
• Active infections
• Anaphylactic reaction to either medication (Oral Steroids, Ibuprofen, and/or Acetaminophen)
• Currently taking anti-platelet agents (aspirin </= 100/mg a day, clopidogrel, etc.)
• Chronic Kidney Disease Stage 3 or worse
• Uncontrolled diabetes (A1C above 9)
• Currently taking oral anti-coagulants
• History of bleeding ulcer
• Cirrhosis
• Taking daily prednisone
• Chronic pain syndrome
• Chronic pain medication (gabapentin, Lyrica, narcotics, etc.)
• Pregnant Patients
• Worker's Compensation Patients