Sprains and strains
Sprains and strains are common injuries affecting the muscles and ligaments. Most can be treated at home without seeing a GP.
Prescription review online
A doctor will review your case and issue a prescription if medically appropriate.
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On this page
- Check if you have a sprain or strain
- How to treat sprains and strains yourself
- A pharmacist can help with sprains and strains
- How long it takes for a sprain or strain to heal
- You cannot always prevent sprains and strains
- Treatments for sprains and strains
- Physiotherapy for sprains and strains
- Self-refer for treatment
- Call 112 or go to A&E if:
Medicines commonly prescribed for Sprains and strains
For informational purposes only. Always consult a doctor before using any medicine.
Dosage form: GEL, 1%Active substance: diclofenacManufacturer: Kern Pharma S.L.Prescription not requiredDosage form: ORAL SOLUTION/SUSPENSION, 684 mgActive substance: ibuprofenManufacturer: Laboratorio De Aplicaciones Farmacodinamicas S.A.Prescription not requiredDosage form: ORAL SOLUTION/SUSPENSION, 200 mgActive substance: ibuprofenManufacturer: Laboratorios Cinfa S.A.Prescription not required
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:
- you have pain, tenderness or weakness – usually around your ankle, foot, wrist, thumb, knee, leg or back
- the injured area is swollen or bruised
- you cannot put weight on the injury or use it normally
- you have muscle spasms or cramping – where your muscles painfully tighten on their own
Is it a sprain or a strain?
Differences between sprains and strains
Sprains Strains
| Torn or twisted ligament (tissue that connects the joints) | Overstretched or torn muscle (also known as a pulled muscle)
| Most common in wrists, ankles, thumbs, knees | Most common in feet, legs, back
How to treat sprains and strains yourself
For the first 2 to 3 days after a sprain or strain, follow the 5 steps known as PRICE therapy to help bring down swelling and support the injury:
- Protection – protect the injury, for example by using a support, or shoes that support your foot or ankle.
- Rest – stop any exercise or activities and try not to put any weight on the injury.
- Ice – apply an ice pack (or a bag of frozen vegetables wrapped in a tea towel) to the injury for up to 20 minutes every 2 to 3 hours.
- Compression – wrap a bandage around the injury to support it during the day.
- Elevate – keep it raised on a pillow as much as possible.
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.
A pharmacist can help with sprains and strains
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.
Treatments for sprains and strains
If you need treatment for a sprain or strain you may be given self-care advice or prescribed a stronger painkiller.
You may need an X-ray, which can sometimes be done at an urgent treatment centre, or you may be referred to hospital.
Consult with a doctor about Sprains and strains
Discuss your symptoms and possible next steps with a doctor online.
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.
Self-refer for treatment
If you have a sprain or strain, you might be able to refer yourself directly to services for help with your condition without seeing a GP.
To find out if there are any services in your area:
- ask the reception staff at your GP surgery
- check your GP surgery's website
- contact your local integrated care board (ICB)
Call 112 or go to A&E if:
- you heard a crack when you had your injury
- the injured body part has changed shape or is pointing at an odd angle
- the injured body part is numb, tingling or has pins and needles
- the skin around the injury has changed colour, such as looking blue or grey, or is cold to touch
You may have broken a bone and will need an X-ray.
Do not drive to A&E. Ask someone to drive you or call 112 and ask for an ambulance.
Bring any medicines you take with you.
Online doctors for Sprains and strains
Discuss your symptoms and possible next steps for Sprains and strains with a doctor online.
