Night Wrap Protocol

Why We Use It

This has nearly zero scientific evidence, but if you and your pharmacist deem it appropriate, my clients have had great results with this.

This wrap helps calm down irritated tendons or sore joints/muscles by improving circulation, reducing inflammation, and supporting healthy tissue repair while you rest. Hirudoid helps collagen organisation in healing at all stages of healing, and voltaren is good for penetration into the tissues. It's thought that voltaren gel supercharges the hirudoid.

It’s most useful for tendon pain, overuse irritation, or post-activity soreness (e.g. elbow, knee, Achilles).

Important Note

I’m not able to prescribe medications — this is an over-the-counter option only.

Before starting, please check with your pharmacist that both creams are appropriate for you, especially if you’re sensitive to diclofenac, aspirin, or other anti-inflammatory gels.

What You’ll Need

✅ Voltaren® Gel (diclofenac 1%) – anti-inflammatory pain-relief gel.

✅ Hirudoid® Cream – helps with tissue healing and collagen organisation.

✅ Cling wrap (Glad Wrap) – keeps the cream in contact overnight.

All are available without a prescription from your local pharmacy.

How to Do It

1. Mix a decent amount of Voltaren gel and Hirudoid cream together (about a teaspoon each).

   
   

2. Apply a thick layer over the sore area – do not rub it in. It's like a poultice.

   
   

3. Wrap loosely in Glad Wrap to stop it going everywhere. The "mini" camping size gladwrap is apparently better.

   
   

4. Leave it on overnight, then wash off in the morning.

How Often

• Use once nightly for up to 2 weeks.

  
  

• After 2 weeks:

  • Take a 1-week break, or

  • Continue with Hirudoid only if it still helps.

  • You can then start again after one week, with the same brew.

    
    

• Avoid using Voltaren gel for more than 2 weeks in a row (that's what it says on the tube)

Extra Tips

• Don’t apply to broken skin or wounds.

• Keep away from pets (Voltaren can be toxic if eaten).

• If it stings, burns, or makes the pain worse, stop and check in with your GP or pharmacist.

• Use it after long or high-load days to help reduce next-day stiffness.

What to Expect

💡 Less morning stiffness or swelling after a few nights.

💡 Better comfort with everyday activity and loading exercises.

When to Stop

❌ If the area becomes hotter, redder, or more painful.

❌ If you develop a skin reaction or any unusual discomfort.

❌ If your pharmacist or doctor advises against using either cream.