Sprains and strains Sprains and strains are common injuries affecting the muscles and ligaments. Most can be treated at home without seeing a GP. Check if you have a sprain or strain It's likely to be a sprain or strain if:
How to treat sprains and strains yourself For the first couple of days, follow the 4 steps known as RICE therapy to help bring down swelling and support the injury:
To help prevent swelling, try to avoid heat (such as hot baths and heat packs), alcohol and massages for the first couple of days. When you can move the injured area without pain stopping you, try to keep moving it so the joint or muscle does not become stiff. Speak to a pharmacist about the best treatment for you. They might suggest tablets, or a cream or gel you rub on the skin. At first, try painkillers like paracetamol to ease the pain and ibuprofen gel, mousse or spray to bring down swelling. If needed, you can take ibuprofen tablets, capsules or syrup that you swallow. How long it takes for a sprain or strain to heal After 2 weeks, most sprains and strains will feel better. Avoid strenuous exercise such as running for up to 8 weeks, as there's a risk of further damage. Severe sprains and strains can take months to get back to normal. You cannot always prevent sprains and strains Sprains and strains happen when you overstretch or twist a muscle. Not warming up before exercising, tired muscles and playing sport are common causes. Treatment at a minor injuries unit Get advice from 111 now if:
111 will tell you what to do. They can tell you the right place to get help if you need to see someone. Go to 111.nhs.uk or call 111. Other ways to get helpGo to an urgent treatment centre Urgent treatment centres are places you can go if you need to see someone now. Theyre also called walk-in centres or minor injuries units. You may be seen quicker than you would at A&E. You may be given self-care advice or prescribed a stronger painkiller. If you need an X-ray, it might be possible to have one at the unit, or you may be referred to hospital. Physiotherapy for sprains and strains If you have a sprain or strain that's taking longer than usual to get better, a GP may be able to refer you to a physiotherapist. Physiotherapy from the NHS might not be available everywhere and waiting times can be long. You can also get it privately. Go to A&E or call 999 if:
You may have broken a bone and will need an X-ray. BestCareCompare | ||||||
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