Backache, sprain and strain treatment in Huntingdon.
A stiff back or a twisted ankle is one of the most common reasons people come to the pharmacy. We can help with pain relief, advise what to do in the first few days, and point out the signs that mean it needs looking at properly.
What are backache, sprains and strains?
Backache is pain or discomfort in the back, often the lower back. It commonly improves within a few weeks.
A sprain happens when a ligament — the tissue connecting bones at a joint — is stretched or torn.
A strain happens when a muscle or tendon is overstretched or torn.
These problems can happen during everyday activities, lifting, exercise or sport. Many mild cases can be managed at home, but it is important to recognise warning signs of a more serious injury.
No appointment needed — come in during opening hours and ask for the pharmacist.
Prefer a set time? Call and we'll book you in with the pharmacist.
Open Mon–Fri 08:45–18:00 (closed 13:00–14:00).
Common signs and symptoms
- Backache: aching, stiffness or sharp pain in the back
- Backache: muscle spasms or difficulty bending, standing or moving comfortably
- Backache: pain that may spread into the buttocks or legs
- Sprains and strains: pain and tenderness around the injured area
- Sprains and strains: swelling or bruising
- Sprains and strains: weakness or difficulty moving the affected joint or muscle
- Sprains and strains: muscle cramping or spasms
- Sprains and strains: difficulty putting weight on the injured limb or using it normally
Note: Symptoms vary according to the severity and location of the injury.
What causes backache, sprains and strains?
Common causes and triggers include:
Lifting heavy objects or lifting with an awkward movement.
Twisting suddenly or overstretching a muscle or joint.
Falls, knocks or sports injuries.
Repetitive movements or doing more physical activity than usual.
Sitting or staying in one position for long periods.
Muscle tension or poor sleep, which can contribute to back discomfort.
Back pain can also have other causes, so persistent or unusual symptoms should not automatically be assumed to be a pulled muscle.
How can it be prevented?
Most back pain and injuries can't be avoided altogether, but these habits take the strain off your back, muscles and joints.
Warm up before exercise and increase activity gradually.
Use safe lifting techniques and keep heavy loads close to your body.
Take regular movement breaks if you sit for long periods.
Wear suitable, supportive footwear during exercise.
Avoid pushing through pain or exercising when muscles are very tired.
Build strength and flexibility gradually with regular activity.
After an injury, return to sport and strenuous activity gradually when movement is comfortable.
When should someone seek medical help?
Most cases settle with self-care, but some signs need a professional assessment.
Contact NHS 111 urgently
Get help if:
- Back pain starts suddenly and is severe or gets worse quickly
- You have back pain with fever, shivering or feeling generally unwell
- An injury causes severe pain, substantial swelling or bruising, or you cannot put weight on the injured limb or walk more than a few steps
Call 999 or go to A&E immediately
These symptoms may indicate a serious spinal problem or fracture and need urgent assessment. Do not drive yourself to A&E if you have emergency warning signs.
- Back pain with new difficulty passing urine, loss of bladder or bowel control, or numbness around the genitals or bottom
- Back pain with new weakness, numbness or tingling in both legs
- A serious accident has caused your back pain
- After an injury, a body part is deformed, numb, cold or blue/grey, or you heard a crack and suspect a broken bone
Speak to a GP
Ask for advice if:
- Back pain does not improve after a few weeks, affects daily activities or keeps returning
- You have unexplained weight loss, a lump or swelling in your back, or pain that is worse at night
- A sprain or strain is not improving with self-care or is getting worse
Remember: Most uncomplicated backache, sprains and strains improve with time and appropriate self-care. Protect fresh injuries, use suitable pain relief and gradually return to movement. Seek help if symptoms are severe, worsening or not improving.
NHS — Back pain NHS — Sprains and strainsCommon questions
Can a pharmacist help with back pain, sprains and strains?
Yes. Our pharmacist can recommend pain relief that suits you, advise what to do with a fresh injury, and tell you when your symptoms need a GP, NHS 111 or A&E instead.
What should I do with a fresh injury?
Protect the injured area, use suitable pain relief, and return to movement gradually as comfort allows. Our pharmacist can go through what's sensible for your injury.
Do I need an X-ray?
We can't take X-rays in the pharmacy, but we can tell you whether your injury needs to be assessed. Signs such as a deformed limb, numbness, or being unable to put weight on it need urgent assessment.
How long does backache last?
Backache commonly improves within a few weeks. If it isn't improving after that, is affecting your daily activities, or keeps returning, it's worth speaking to a GP.
What pain relief can you recommend?
It depends on your health, other medicines and the injury itself. Ask our pharmacist — we'll check what's suitable for you rather than pointing you at the first box on the shelf.
How much does it cost?
The consultation is free. If the pharmacist can treat you under the scheme, any NHS prescription charge that applies is the same as it would be at your GP — and free if you don't normally pay for prescriptions.
Do I need an appointment?
No — walk-ins are welcome during opening hours. If you'd rather have a set time, call us on 01480 425412 and we'll schedule one for you.
Is the consultation private?
Yes. Any consultation takes place in our private consultation room, and anything you discuss stays confidential.
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Walk in and ask for the pharmacist, or call us to arrange a time — free NHS advice and treatment under the Minor Ailments Scheme.