Muscle strains and sprains
Pain in the muscles, including aching, swelling or tightness
Muscle strains and sprains are common sports injuries. Our orthopaedic experts can help to diagnose and treat you
About muscle problems
Need to know
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What are the symptoms of muscle strains or sprains? icon plus
Muscle strains happen as a result of muscle fibres stretching beyond their limit. There are different severity levels and symptoms:
Severity
- Grade 1: affects a few fibres and can heal between 2-3 weeks
- Grade 2: affects more muscle fibres and can be very painful; takes up to six weeks to heal
- Grade 3: muscle tissue rupture; recovery can be up to three months
Symptoms
- muscle pain
- muscle spasms and cramps
- muscle weakness
- muscle swelling and inflammation
The hamstrings and the back can be particularly vulnerable.
Muscle sprains refer to a ligament tear or stretching, such as a twisted ankle. Symptoms include:
- swelling/bruising
- pain/discomfort
- restriction of movement in the area
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How are muscle injuries diagnosed? icon plus
Your consultant will discuss your symptoms with you to help make a diagnosis. Tests we offer to diagnose joint inflammation and swelling include:
- a physical examination to understand the extent of the injury
- X-rays to assess and/or rule out broken bones
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Potential treatment options icon plus
Your consultant will discuss your treatment options and help to determine the best approach for you. Treatment options might include:
- physiotherapy course relevant to your specific injury
- pain relief medication - if required, you may be given crutches to assist with walking
- surgery may be considered for a torn ligament or ruptured muscle
Your consultant will discuss these treatment options with you in detail during the diagnosis process.
Our orthopaedic consultants
Our locations
From complex physiological muscle issues to diagnostic tests and procedures, we provide exceptional orthopaedic care across our network of hospitals, outpatient centres and specialist clinics.
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The Wellington Hospital
Wellington Place
St John's Wood
London NW8 9LE
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London Bridge Hospital
27 Tooley Street
London
SE1 2PR
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The Lister Hospital
Chelsea Bridge Road
London
SW1W 8RH
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The Princess Grace Hospital
42-52 Nottingham Place
London W1U 5NY
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The Portland Hospital
205 - 209 Great Portland Street
London W1W 5AH
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HCA UK at The Wilmslow Hospital
52-54 Alderley Road
Wilmslow
Cheshire SK9 1NY
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The Harley Street Clinic
35 Weymouth Street
London W1G 8BJ
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HCA UK at The Shard
The Shard
32 St Thomas Street
London SE1 9BS
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Platinum Medical Centre
15 - 17 Lodge Road
London
NW8 7JA
Book an appointment
Our team can help with any enquiries or you can make an appointment with one of our experienced consultants.
Call us today
020 7079 4344