Sprains and Strains
| NHSGGC urges public to treat sprains and strains at homeAs people continue to embrace their new year with fitness resolutions into February, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde (NHSGGC) physiotherapists are reminding everyone about the importance of warming up before exercising. Over a six-month period, more than 8,300 people have visited A&E with sprains and strains of the ankle, foot, or wrist – that’s over 300 people per week. A&E Visits by the numbers:Queen Elizabeth University Hospital: 1,896 casesRoyal Alexandra Hospital: 1,971 casesGlasgow Royal Infirmary: 1,535 casesRoyal Hospital for Children, Glasgow: 1,619 casesInverclyde Royal Hospital: 1,292 casesLindsay Wheeler, NHSGGC Advanced Practice Physiotherapist, said: “Understandably, as the new year hit, many have been inspired to go to the gym, and take up new sports and active hobbies as part of their resolutions. This is fantastic and highly encouraged, but we’re asking all to remember that your body needs time to adapt to a change in activity levels. It is important to take a graded approach, spend at least three minutes for a stretch routine, and follow gym instructions appropriately. This will help avoid injuries and being set back a few weeks.” Importantly, NHSGGC is also asking the public to take note of how to treat an injury should they receive a sprain or strain, as A&E is prioritised for urgent and life-threatening conditions. |
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| Dr Claire Harrow, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde Deputy Medical Director for Acute Services, said: “The number one reason for people attending our A&E departments is sprained ankles, and sprained wrists aren’t too far behind. “But the reality is also that there isn’t a lot that our A&E staff can do for a sprain or strain that can’t done by yourself at home, so it doesn’t make sense to sit for hours in a waiting room. “We ask that instead, people review our guides on the NHSGGC website for any muscular pain. We understand that there are times when you might want to chat to someone for advice or feel like you need an X-ray. If that’s the case, you should call 111. If appropriate, they’ll give you an appointment at a virtual A&E or Minor Injury Unit near you. This allows you to wait more comfortably at home and be treated sooner. “Please don’t be caught up in A&E if you don’t have to be.” After an injury, the body initiates a repair process that includes inflammation, often causing pain, swelling, mild heat, and redness. If people do sprain or strain their wrist or ankle, they can follow these steps to care for the injury at home.Ice application: Use ice to manage swelling, but never place it directly on the skin. Apply for up to 15 minutes, with a few hours between treatments. Discontinue if you notice increased redness, discolouration, blistering, worsening swelling, or if the area becomes hot and red.Compression and elevation: Use compression bandages or tubigrips, ensuring they are not too tight. Elevate the affected area above heart level to reduce swelling.Initial Care: The first few days are usually the most painful. Adapt your activities to your comfort level, using aids like walking sticks or arm supports if necessary.Movement: Avoid excessive rest. Gradually start moving the affected area within acceptable pain limits, increasing activity levels daily.Ongoing Care. As symptoms improve, gradually reintroduce movement, strength, and functional activities to reduce stiffness, pain, and swelling. This helps the body repair and restore itself.For more information and access to the Physiotherapy Service, visit the NHSGGC website. |