Guide
Sports injuries and sprains — first aid and remedies
Prepared by the LekCheck team · Last reviewed: 2026-07-25 · How we create our content
Sprains, strains and bruises are common in sport and everyday activities. For mild injuries, first aid and a few over-the-counter products usually relieve the pain and swelling. Below we describe the principles of first aid and the commonly used ingredients; choose an ingredient to see available products and prices. For severe pain, inability to bear weight or deformity, see a doctor.
This guide was prepared by the LekCheck team and has not been reviewed by a doctor or pharmacist. This article is for general information only and is not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Do not start, stop, or change any treatment without consulting a doctor or pharmacist.
First aid for a sprain (the RICE principle)
For an acute sprain or bruise, the 'rest, ice, compression, elevation' (RICE) principle helps: rest the limb, a cold compress for 15-20 minutes several times a day in the first days, light compression with an elastic bandage, and raising above heart level. Avoid heat and massage in the first 48 hours.
Painkillers and anti-inflammatories
For pain and inflammation, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are used — topical gels with diclofenac, ketoprofen or ibuprofen, as well as tablets (e.g. ibuprofen, naproxen). Topical forms act at the site with fewer systemic effects. Follow the dose and precautions in the leaflet.
Recovery and gradual loading
After the acute phase, gentle movement and a gradual return to activity support recovery. Loading too soon risks re-injury. For more persistent complaints, rehabilitation and exercises under a specialist's guidance are useful. Listen to your body and do not push through pain.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor for severe pain, inability to step or bear weight, visible deformity, severe swelling or numbness, or if there is no improvement over a few days. These signs may point to a fracture, tear or more serious injury needing examination and imaging.
Commonly used active ingredients
Pick an ingredient to see products and prices.
Related categories
Products with current prices
Lowest prices from online pharmacies in this guide's categories — cheapest first.
Загряващ пластир за облекчаване на менструални болки x 1 бр, Huainan Hall
HUAINAN HALL · 1 бр
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Охлаждащ гел пластир (при фебрилни състояния ) с действие до 8 часа x 1 бр., Huainan Hall
HUAINAN HALL · 1 бр.
БЕБЕЛАН / BEBELAN НАТУРАЛНА ВОДА ЗА БЕБЕТА 500МЛ
БЕБЕЛАН · 500МЛ
СПИРТ САЛИЦИЛОВ 1% 100 МЛ
СПИРТ · 100 МЛ
ГОЛИА АКТИВ / GOLIA ACTIVE БОНБОНИ ЕКСТРА СТРОНГ Х 24БР
PERFETTI · 24БР
КАМШИК СТРЪК 50ГР. БИЛЕК
BILEC HERBS & HERBAL · 50ГР.
Frequently asked questions
Which is better for a sprain — ice or heat?
In the first 48 hours after an acute injury, ice (a cold compress) is preferred to reduce pain and swelling, and heat is avoided as it can increase swelling. Heat may help later, for muscle tension without acute swelling. If unsure, ask a specialist.
Gel or tablet for a sports injury?
Topical anti-inflammatory gels are applied to the injury site and usually have fewer systemic side effects, while tablets act more generally for stronger pain. The choice depends on the type and severity of the complaints — if unsure, consult a pharmacist.
How quickly does a sprain heal?
Mild sprains often improve in about 1-2 weeks with rest and care, while more severe ones take longer. Returning to sport too soon increases the risk of re-injury. If there is no improvement or the pain is severe, it is good to see a doctor.
Can I exercise with a sprain?
With an acute sprain, it is sensible to rest the limb and avoid loading through pain. The return to activity is gradual, once the pain and swelling subside. Forcing it risks worsening. If a more serious injury is suspected, seek a medical assessment first.
When does a sprain need a doctor?
See a doctor for inability to step, severe pain, visible deformity, severe swelling, numbness or no improvement over a few days. These signs can mean a fracture or tear, which need examination and sometimes imaging.