Sprains and strains: Overview

Man clutching ankle

Pain from sprains and strains

Sprains and strains are common injuries affecting the muscles and ligaments.1

A sprain is a torn or twisted ligament caused by applying abnormal or excessive force to a joint, most commonly affecting the wrists, ankles, thumbs or knees.2

A strain is an overstretched or torn muscle – or 'pulled muscle' – that typically occurs in the feet, legs and back.2

These soft-tissue injuries are a frequent cause of pain, but can be managed with a variety of interventions.2

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Soft-tissue injuries are a common cause of pain3

Meet Ben and Nicholas

Ben

Ben

Ben balances the demands of his full-time job with taking care of his two young children. 

He enjoys going to the gym or exercising outdoors and loves nothing more than playing with his children.  

The last thing he needs is pain from a sprain or strain affecting his life. Unfortunately, Ben has recently sustained a muscle injury while running, which means he struggles to do the things he loves.

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Nicholas

Nicholas

Nicholas, aged 35, is an ambitious guy.

During the week, he holds down a professional position in an office – but sport is his real passion: his free time revolves around it, after work and for a considerable part of his weekend, both playing and watching.

He has recently strained a muscle that he has injured several times before, and recovery is taking longer than it did in the past. This means he is having to stick to the sidelines, which is making him feel glum and frustrated.

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Understanding sprains and strains

Causes icon

Causes

Find out about the causes of sprains and strains.

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Signs and symptoms icon

Signs and symptoms

Find out how to recognise sprains and strains and when to refer patients.

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Management

Learn how sprains and strains can be managed.

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Voltaren Emulgel with No Mess Applicator

Voltaren Emulgel with No Mess Applicator for strains and sprains9

Relieves muscle pain and reduces inflammation. 6–8

The No Mess Applicator enables targeted, effective pain relief straight from the tube to the point of pain, without messy fingers.

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Voltaren Osteo Gel 12 Hourly

Voltaren Osteo Gel 12 Hourly with easy open cap

Up to 12 hours relief from mild osteoarthritis flare-up pain.10

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Educational resources

Educational resources

Access detailed clinical information about pain.

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