Sprains and strains: Signs and symptoms
Recognising sprains and strains
Sprains and strains can be managed relatively simply, so it helps to know how to identify this common type of injury.1
Signs and symptoms
Both sprains and strains cause pain, inflammation and swelling.
- Symptoms of a sprain occur around the affected joint and can also include bruising, loss of function, and mechanical instability if severe.2
- Symptoms of a strain affect the injured muscle and can include spasm, weakness and cramping.2
Symptom severity depends on both the severity of the injury and the time since the injury took place – it can take up to 24 hours for bruising and swelling to become apparent.2
Understanding sprains and strains
Overview of joint and osteoarthritic pain
Find out about how joint and osteoarthritic pain are, and meet two patients with joint pain.
Learn more
Voltarol gel 11,6 mg/g triple effect- for strains and sprains
Relieves pain, reduces inflammation and swelling. 4–6
Patient care resources
Access a leaflet for your patients which can help them understand the causes of muscle pain and how best to treat it.
