28 Oct When To Visit Urgent Care for Orthopedic Emergencies
Urgent care centers provide a convenient, immediate medical option for non-life-threatening conditions. When you experience an injury to your bones, joints, or muscles, these facilities provide a middle ground between primary care and an emergency room. Understanding which orthopedic conditions are appropriate for these centers helps you receive timely, appropriate medical attention. Here is more information about when you should visit urgent care:
Broken Bones
A broken bone, or fracture, requires prompt evaluation. Deformities, a snapping sound, and an inability to bear weight are clear signs that you need medical care. You might also experience intense pain, swelling, and bruising around the affected area, which could indicate a more serious issue.
Urgent care centers typically have on-site X-ray technology, which allows for a quick diagnosis of many types of fractures. After diagnosis, medical staff can apply a splint or cast to immobilize the bone, preventing further injury and managing pain. For complex or severe fractures, the team can refer patients to an orthopedic specialist for follow-up treatment.
Minor fractures, such as those in a finger or toe, are managed from start to finish in an urgent care setting. These injuries may do not require surgical intervention, so the initial treatment provided at the center may be sufficient. This approach offers a direct, quicker pathway for diagnosing and stabilizing fractures than emergency departments.
Dislocated Joints
A joint dislocation occurs when the ends of your bones are forced from their normal positions, and this injury is typically very painful and immobilizes the joint. You will likely see a visible deformity, such as a bump or an odd shape, at the site of the affected joint. Urgent care is suitable for many dislocations, including fingers, toes, or shoulders, and can provide prompt treatment.
Medical professionals at these facilities can perform a procedure called a reduction, which involves gently maneuvering the bones back into their proper place. Because this procedure can be painful, pain management is administered before the reduction begins. After a successful reduction, the joint is stabilized with a splint or sling to allow it to heal.
Injured Tendons and Ligaments
Sprains and tendon injuries happen when ligaments or tendons are stretched or torn. You might experience a sprain if you twist an ankle or wrist, while tendonitis typically results from overuse. These injuries cause pain, swelling, and limited movement, and they can impair your ability to perform daily activities. These centers can assess the severity of these soft tissue injuries. Standard signs that point to a tendon or ligament injury include:
- Pop-like sound or a sensation at the time of injury
- Immediate and severe pain
- Rapid swelling and bruising
- Frequent inability to use the joint
Muscle-related Strains
Muscle strains occur when muscle fibers tear due to overstretching or overwork. You might experience sudden pain or a pulling sensation during physical activity. While many minor strains can be managed at home, a visit to urgent care is needed if the pain is severe. A provider can diagnose the injury and recommend a treatment plan, which may include rest, ice, and exercises.
Visit Urgent Care Today
If you are experiencing symptoms of an orthopedic injury, an urgent care center can provide the assessment and treatment you need. These facilities offer a practical alternative for immediate care when treating fractures, dislocations, and soft-tissue injuries. Visit a clinic today and receive a prompt evaluation of your orthopedic concern.
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