You have been treated for the injury you have sustained to either a ligament or muscle. You have had a thorough examination and are now considered fit to be discharged. The following instructions will aid your recovery.
Care instructions for a Soft Tissue Injury
A sprain is an injury to a ligament – the tissue that connects the joints.
A strain is a stretching injury to muscles or tendons.
The principles of managing your injury are P.R.I.C.E and H.A.R.M.
You may require pain relief for your injury. Paracetamol can be taken (as per instructions) and a Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory drug (such as ibuprofen gel) can be applied topically.
Please see your GP if after 48 hours you require more pain relief such as a Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (Ibuprofen) or a stronger painkiller such as Codeine (in Adults).
P.R.I.C.E
P Protection – protect from further injury (for example by using a support or high-top, lace-up shoes).
R Rest – avoid activity for the first 48–72 hours following injury.
I Ice – apply ice wrapped in a damp towel for 15–20 minutes every 2–3 hours during the day for the first 48–72 hours following the injury. This should not be left on whilst the person is asleep.
C Compression – some patients benefit from compression support for the first few days after injury. You should seek advice from a pharmacist for a suitably sized support – this must be removed before going to sleep and usually you will be advised to remove it for good after 48 hours use.
E Elevation – keep the injured area elevated and supported on a pillow until the swelling is controlled. If the leg is injured, prolonged periods with the leg not elevated should be avoided.
H.A.R.M
To avoid HARM in the first 72 hours after the injury:
H Avoid Heat – for example hot baths, saunas, and heat packs.
A Avoid Alcohol – increases bleeding and swelling and decreases healing.
R Avoid Running – or any other form of exercise which may cause further damage.
M Avoid Massage – may increase bleeding and swelling.
If after 5–7 days you are not improving as expected or your injury has worsened please seek medical advice.
Share this...
Were you prepared for the visit today?
Did you feel you were prepared for your hospital visit today? Not many people do. The focus of getting there, whether it is in an emergency or for an appointment, can easily end up with you in a muddle.
Am I Prepared?Related Information
Burnout at work
Over the past few decades, “burnout” has become an all-too-familiar way of speaking about a growing problem. Although originating with psychologist Herbert Freudenberger’s 1974 theory, it…
Read More
Food Labelling
The UK government requires all pre-packed food to list nutritional information on the packaging.
Read More
World Alzheimer’s Month – Simple tips to reducing your risk of Alzheimer’s
Simple tips for reducing risk of alzheimer’s – World alzheimer’s Month
Read More
Social Media
Social media is everywhere, we use it everyday in some shape or form. Here are some tips on using social media to improve your mental wellbeing.
Read More
Going Green
To reduce our carbon footprint and help the planet, MySelfCare and BOE have joined the Chamber Low Carbon scheme. We’re on track for becoming greenhouse gas…
Read MoreWas this information useful?
How easy to understand and how useful was the information for you. All feedback is anonymous. If you would like a possible response, please include your email.
How was your visit today?
How well did our staff do today in helping you with your condition. Please note All feedback is anonymous. If you would like a possible response, please include your email.
Treatment Feedback - Tools for Hospitals
Coming soon – order physical products, and new categories, review your documents and much more.
You must have a valid NHS Email to use this service.
Find Out More
News & Blog
View All
Part 2 – Delivering Information
This video explores the diverse range of patient information delivery products offered by MySelfCare, providing comprehensive guidance on how to utilise them effectively.
Read More
Part 1 – Scanning QRs
This video provides step-by-step instructions on how to use QR codes with MySelfCare, making it easy for you to utilise this powerful feature
Read More
Introduction Video
Introducing you to MySelfCare and a Quick overview of its features and how it works in the Hospital
Read More
Burnout at work
Over the past few decades, “burnout” has become an all-too-familiar way of speaking about a growing problem. Although originating with psychologist Herbert Freudenberger’s 1974 theory, it…
Read More