Use the links below to find trusted information about joint, muscle and back pain.

Get urgent medical help if:

Call 999 or go to A&E if you have pain after a serious injury, such as a fall, accident or sports injury, and:

  • you heard a snap, grinding or popping noise at the time of injury
  • the injured area has changed shape
  • you cannot move the injured area or put weight on it
  • you have severe pain, heavy bleeding, or the area is numb, blue or very swollen

Call 999 if you have new weakness in your face, arm or leg, sudden confusion, chest pain, or severe difficulty breathing.

A pharmacist may be able to help

A pharmacist can give advice about pain relief and self-care for some muscle, joint and back pain. In Wales, back pain is one of the conditions covered by the NHS Wales Common Ailments Scheme.

Find a pharmacy Read NHS 111 Wales back pain advice

Find information about your pain

Select the area that best matches your pain to read about symptoms, self-care and when to get medical help.

Ankle pain
Back pain
Elbow and arm pain
Foot pain
Shoulder pain
Wrist and hand pain
Hip pain in adults
Knee pain
Leg cramps and leg pain
Neck pain

Not sure what to do?

If you are not sure where to get help, contact NHS 111 Wales. They can advise you on the right service for your symptoms.

Contact NHS 111 Wales