Strains and Sprains

A strain is the stretching or tearing of your muscles or tendons (the tissue connecting your muscle to your bone). Strains are common in the legs and back.

A sprain is the tearing or stretching of the ligaments (the tissues around the joints that connect bones to one another). Sprains are common in the knees, ankles, and wrists.

Both may involve pain, swelling, bruising, soreness and restricted movement.

HOW TO TREAT AT HOME

• Stop doing the activity that caused the strain or sprain immediately

• Administer the PRICE therapy:

  • Protect the injured area

  • Rest

  • Ice the area by placing an ice pack (wrap a bag of ice in a towel) on the injured area for 15 to 20 minutes

  • Compress the injured area with an elastic bandage until the swelling stops

  • Elevate the injured area by raising it above the level of your heart, especially at night

• Over-the-counter oral pain medications, such as Paracetamol or Ibuprofen, or pain relief creams or patches can be used to relieve pain. Speak to your pharmacist if you are unsure how to take the medication, especially if you have any allergies, other medical conditions or are currently on other medications

SEE YOUR PHARMACIST IF:

• You need further advice on how to manage your symptoms. Your pharmacist can also recommend other medications for your condition or advise if you need to see a GP, or visit the emergency department

SEE YOUR GP IF:

• There is severe pain or swelling

• You are feeling numbness or coldness in the wounded area

• The injured limb looks crooked or has unusual lumps

• You cannot move the injured joint or muscle

• You cannot put any weight on the injured limb

• Symptoms have not improved after 3 days of treatment at home

There is no need to visit the A&E for a strain or sprain unless your GP says so