Sprains and strains
Sprains and strains
- Sprain stretch and/or tear of a ligament5
- Strain stretch and/or tear of muscles/tendons5
Click on the tabs below for more information
- Advice5
- Avoid
- Pain Relief
Customers affected by a sprain/strain can be advised to follow the PRICE guidance.
-
P
Protection from further injury,
e.g. use a support -
R
Rest for 48-72 hours
following injury -
I
Ice apply for 15-20 minutes
every 2-3 hours for 48-72 hours after injury -
C
Compression to control swelling
and support injury -
E
Elevation keep elevated until
swelling is controlled
In the first 72 hours after injury, customers can be advised to avoid HARM:
-
H
Heat
-
A
Alcohol
-
R
Running
-
M
Massage
- Paracetamol and/or topical NSAIDs may be recommended for the relief of sprains or strains.
- Oral NSAIDs should not be used in the first 48 hours after injury.5
- Codeine can be used as an "add on" to paracetamol, if necessary.
