Sprains and strains

A sprain is an injury to a ligament that supports a joint, such as the elbow or knee. A strain is an injury to a muscle or tendon, such as a hamstring. Strains happen when a muscle is overstretched, making it prone to tearing. Both of these injuries often happen during physical activity, but they can also occur due to overreaching or even falling awkwardly. Symptoms can include pain around the affected area, swelling and inflammation. Bruising may occur later. Some customers may be unable to put weight on the affected joint.

Using the PRICE technique is the best course of action to treat sprains and strains: 

• Protect: the area should be quickly protected from further injury
• Rest: activity should be avoided for a minimum of 48-72 hours after the injury has occurred
• Ice: an ice pack – or even a bag or frozen peas – wrapped in a towel can be applied to the area to help to reduce swelling. It should be applied as quickly as possible and held to the affected area for up to 20 minutes every two to three hours
• Compression: elastic compression bandages can be used during the day to limit swelling
• Elevation: raising the affected area above the level of the heart, if possible, will help to limit swelling.