Starting the healing when accidents happen
Urgent medical care professionals are there to help when a patient comes in with any type of injury, including a bad sprain, and dislocated or broken bones. In some cases, it is hard for the patient to determine whether or not a bone is even broken. That is why we have Xray on-site so we can evaluate your need to see a specialist.
But reality is that your worst sprain or dislocation will probably happen when you – and your doctor – least expect it. That’s why our Urgent Care is equipped to help you understand your injury and decide the best course of treatment.
Strains, Sprains and Fractures
Strains occur in muscles or in the connective tendons linking muscles and bones. At the moment of injury, you may actually feel a popping sensation as the tissue tears. Among the most common sites of sprains are the back and the hamstring in the back of the thigh, according to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. Besides pain, symptoms of strain include swelling, muscle spasms or difficulty moving the affected area.
Sprains occur primarily in the ligaments that connect the bones at your joints. You are more likely to sprain your knee or your ankle than any other joint in your body. When you sprain something, you tear the ligament to varying degrees. Your joint may swell rapidly directly following the injury. It will be painful, and difficult or impossible to use.
A fracture is called complete when the bone is totally separated and incomplete when the bone is only partially broken. Unless you have a compound fracture with the bone piercing your skin, it is hard to know the extent of your injury. Symptoms of fracture are similar to those of a strain or a sprain.
First Aid for Strains, Sprains and Fractures
These three injuries present in similar ways. If you have a compound fracture, you should cover the wound and head for the hospital. Otherwise, the quickest way to get a diagnosis is to get a ride to Family First Urgent Care as soon as possible. We’ll take x-rays if needed and help you stabilize your injury. Remember to keep your weight off all strains, sprains and fractures until it has been assessed by a medical professional. Further damage can occur if the muscle support system is compromised. Questions? Give us a call. We’re always happy to help you assess an emergency.
