First Aid Guides
Sprains and strains
Causes, signs and symptoms
It's difficult to tell if an injury is a fracture, dislocation, sprain or strain. If in doubt, treat it as a fracture.
What can cause a sprain or strain?
- Falling and landing on your arm
- Falling on the side of the foot
- Twisting a joint the wrong way
What are the symptoms of a strain or sprain?
Symptoms of a sprain can include:
- Intense pain or tenderness
- Restricted movement of the joint
- Swelling and bruising
Symptoms of a strain can include:
- Sharp sudden pain
- Loss of power in the limb or muscle
- Muscle tenderness
