Sprains and Strains

Bumps and bruises, cuts and grazes… they’re all a natural part of the rough and tumble of childhood. And most can be treated with a plaster, some TLC and lots of cuddles. Strains and sprains, on the other hand, may need a bit of extra special care.

What is a strain or sprain?

A strain is when a muscle, tendon or ligament has been overstretched or overused. An injury is known as a sprain when the muscle, tendon or ligament is stretched even more severely. Your child could easily strain or sprain a muscle if they’re running around the garden, climbing over furniture or playing sport.

How should you treat a sprain or strain?

Use the RICE principle:

Rest - Tell your child that they mustn’t run around.
Ice - Use come ice to cool the affected area.
Compression - Give the injury extra support by compressing the affected area with a bandage.
Elevation - Try to keep the injury up to help drain off the fluid that causes swelling.

Pain relievers that contain ibuprofen – the active ingredient in Nurofen for Children* – can also help ease pain and reduce swelling.

When should you contact a doctor?

Please take your child to the doctor if they’re in lots of pain, a muscle or joint is very swollen, or they find it very hard to move.