A rolled ankle on the soccer pitch, a back that seized while shovelling, a wrist tweaked at the gym — sprains and strains are the everyday injuries of active life. Most heal well; the first few days of care set the tone.
The modern first-aid recipe
Think protection and relative rest early: avoid what hurts, but don't immobilize completely for days — gentle movement as pain allows actually speeds recovery for most soft-tissue injuries. Ice can ease pain in the first day or two; compression and elevation help swelling. Total bed rest is yesterday's advice.
Where treatment fits
Pain control that lets you move comfortably is a legitimate part of healing. Options range from topical anti-inflammatories (a smart first choice for many joints close to the surface) to oral anti-inflammatories at prescription strength when appropriate. Ontario pharmacists can assess musculoskeletal sprains and strains and prescribe when appropriate, free with a valid Ontario health card.
Signs it's more than a sprain
Inability to bear weight, deformity, numbness, a pop followed by rapid swelling, or pain that isn't improving after several days deserve medical imaging and assessment — we'll point you to the right place rather than guessing.
Hurting after a weekend of overdoing it? Get a free assessment and a recovery plan. Orleans Community Pharmacy · 613-824-3111 · https://orleansrx.ca/pages/minor-ailments.
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This article is general information, not medical advice. A pharmacist assessment is required to determine whether treatment is appropriate for you; some situations need a referral to a physician or nurse practitioner, and Ontario pharmacists prescribe only within their permitted scope. Orleans Community Pharmacy · 2746 St-Joseph Blvd, Unit 100, Orléans, ON · 613-824-3111.
