Sprains and strains: Signs and symptoms
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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
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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 severe2
- Symptoms of a strain affect the injured muscle and can include spasm, weakness and cramping2
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
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Overview of joint pain
Find out more about joint pain and meet two patients with joint pain.
Learn more
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Voltarol Emulgel P 1% w/w Gel
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Voltarol Heat Patch
Find out how Voltarol Heat Patch can provide non-medicated relief for back and muscle pain.