Urgent Care for Sprains, Strains and Breaks
Injuries like fractures, sprains, and strains are common. A fracture is a broken bone, a sprain is a ligament tear, and a strain is a muscle injury. Symptoms can include pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the affected area.
If you’re unsure of the severity of your injury, visit an Emerald Coast Urgent Care walk-in clinic for prompt diagnosis and treatment. Walk in today or continue reading to learn more about these common injuries.
Sprains vs. Strains: Understanding the Difference
Sprains and strains are both common injuries, but they affect different tissues. It can be difficult to tell if you’ve suffered a sprain or a fracture.
- Sprains involve damage to ligaments, the tissues connecting bones. They often cause pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the joint.
- Fractures are bone breaks, typically resulting from a direct impact or excessive force. Symptoms include severe pain, swelling, bruising, and sometimes visible bone deformity.
While both can cause pain, swelling, and limited movement, the specific tissue involved distinguishes the two injuries.
When in doubt, visit Emerald Coast Urgent Care in Destin, Panama City Beach, or Inlet Beach for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
Sprain Symptoms: When to Seek Care
Do you think you might have a sprain? It’s essential to have it evaluated by a medical professional. Common sprain symptoms include:
- Pain
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Limited mobility
- Instability
If you’re experiencing these symptoms, visit Emerald Coast Urgent Care for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
Fracture Symptoms: When to Seek Urgent Care
Fractures, or broken bones, are serious injuries requiring immediate medical attention. While some symptoms may overlap with sprains, there are distinct signs indicating a possible fracture:
- Severe pain: Often described as intense and worsening.
- Deformity: Visible misalignment or unusual shape of the limb.
- Limited mobility: Inability to move the affected area without significant pain.
- Bruising and swelling: Rapidly developing and often extensive.
- Grinding or crackling sensation: A noticeable noise or feeling when moving the injured area.
- Numbness or tingling: In some cases, due to nerve damage.
If you suspect a fracture, seek medical attention immediately at our urgent care facility.
Treatment for Sprains and Fractures at a Walk-In Clinic Near You
Emerald Coast Urgent Care offers convenient walk-in treatment for sprains and fractures. Our experienced medical team in Destin, Panama City Beach, and Inlet Beach will assess your injury and develop a tailored treatment plan.
Treatment options may include:
- Immobilization: Splints, casts, or braces to stabilize the injured area.
- Imaging: X-rays to determine the extent of the injury.
- Pain management: Medication to reduce discomfort.
- Physical therapy: To restore strength and mobility.
In rare cases, surgery may be necessary.
Don’t delay seeking medical attention for a suspected sprain or fracture. Visit our nearest location or call today. Contact us directly to learn more:
- Destin: 850-654-8878
- Panama City Beach: 850-236-8655
- Inlet Beach: 850-588-1843
