Minor injuries

This is in addition to any specific advice given to you by the ambulance crew you saw today

Most mild to moderate sprains and strains can be treated at home using P.R.I.C.E

• Protection: Protect the injured area from further injury - for example, by using a support or in the case of an ankle injury, wearing shoes that enclose and support your feet, such as lace-ups. 

• Rest: Stop the activity that caused the injury and rest the injured joint or muscle. Avoid activity for the first 48-72 hours after you injure yourself. Your GP may recommend that you also use crutches. 

• Ice: For the first 48-72 hours after the injury apply ice wrapped in a damp towel to the injured area for 15-20 minutes every two to three hours during the day. Do not leave the ice on while you are asleep, and do not allow ice to touch your skin directly as this may cause a cold burn.

• Compression: Compress or bandage the injured area in order to limit any swelling and movement that could damage it further. You can use a crepe bandage, a simple elastic bandage or an elasticated tubular bandage. It should be wrapped snugly around the affected area but it should not be too tight. You should remove the bandage before you go to sleep. 

• Elevation: Keep the injured area raised and supported on a pillow to help reduce the swelling. If your leg is injured you should avoid long periods of time where your leg is not raised. 

Sprains - moving the injured joint

Healthcare professionals advise that you should not immobilise your injured joint and should not stop moving completely. As soon as the pain allows you to move your joint, you should start doing flexibility (range of motion) exercises. Your GP can give you information and advice about the exercises that will be suitable for you. 

Treating pain

The pain can be treated with paracetamol or ibuprofen. Always check the manufacturer's instructions when using over-the-counter (OTC) medication. Children under 16 years of age should not be given aspirin. If this doesn't help, then contact your GP. 

Recovery

Following a sprain or a strain, the length of time that it will take for you to recover will depend on how severe the injury is. After an ankle sprain you will probably be able to walk within 1 - 2 weeks. You may be able to use your ankle fully after 6 - 8 weeks and you will probably be able to return to sporting activities after 8 - 12 weeks. 

Follow-up after treatment

You should also visit your GP again if: 

• Your sprain, or strain, does not improve as expected - for example, you still find walking difficult
• Your symptoms get worse, such as increased pain or swelling
• You are concerned about your injury

Call 999 in the event of a life-threatening emergency.