How common are sprains and strains?
It is hard to estimate exactly how common sprains and strains are because many people do not report minor injuries to their GP. However, it is known that an ankle sprain is the most common type of sprain, accounting for an estimated 1-1.5 million visits to accident and emergency (A&E) departments each year in the UK. Muscle strains are very common injuries that affect those who play a lot of sport, such as professional sportspeople . For example, it is estimated that 90% of professional footballers will experience at least one muscle strain during the course of a football season.
