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Orthopedics urgent care centers provide specialized medical attention for musculoskeletal issues, and they provide an alternative to emergency rooms. By knowing when to visit an orthopedic urgent care, you can get care quickly when you experience a joint problem. Here is more information about urgent care centers when you have joint issues:
Acute Injuries
Acute injuries happen suddenly and typically result from a fall, impact, or accident. One acute injury is a fracture, which is a break in the bone that requires immediate attention for proper healing. While some fractures are apparent, others present with deep, aching pain and difficulty moving the affected limb.
Another acute injury is a sprain, which involves stretched or torn ligaments. You may hear a “pop” at the time of injury, and sprains can cause significant pain and instability in the joint. Get prompt care for acute injuries, because it helps to support the healing process.
Suspected Dislocation
A dislocation occurs when the bones of a joint are forced out of their normal alignment. This injury is typically very painful, and it results in the joint being visibly deformed or out of place. Since it may be very challenging to move the affected joint, this condition requires immediate medical intervention. Attempting to fix a dislocation on your own can cause more damage to the surrounding tissues, nerves, and blood vessels.
Severe Joint Pain
Experiencing severe joint pain that starts suddenly or does not get better with rest needs timely evaluation. You might find that the pain limits your daily activities, and this level of discomfort signals a potential problem. If you are unable to put weight on a joint because of intense pain, seeking medical attention is a practical next step.
Intense pain points to various underlying issues, from inflammation to structural damage within the joint. People may try to manage severe pain at home, but this approach might delay a proper diagnosis. A healthcare professional at an orthopedics urgent care clinic can assess the source of the pain and recommend a course of action.
Pain that wakes you from sleep is another clear sign that something is wrong. This type of pain may be persistent, and it does not respond to over-the-counter pain relievers. When pain becomes this disruptive, a specialized assessment provides clarity on the necessary steps for management.
Significant Swelling
Noticeable swelling around a joint, especially when it appears quickly, indicates that you should seek medical care. The joint may look visibly larger than its counterpart, so a visual comparison is helpful. Swelling is a natural response to injury, but excessive or rapid swelling can point to a more serious condition that requires a professional diagnosis.
In addition to swelling, you may notice:
- Redness of the skin
- Warmth to the touch
- Tightness or pressure
When these symptoms are combined with swelling, it suggests an inflammatory process or fluid accumulation within the joint. Such conditions may benefit from a prompt and thorough evaluation. A specialist determines the cause, and they can guide you in managing the swelling and any related discomfort.
Schedule Orthopedics Urgent Care
When symptoms like severe pain, significant swelling, or a suspected dislocation appear, delaying a visit is not advisable. An orthopedic urgent care clinic offers the specialized services you need, and you can get them fast. If you are experiencing any of these joint issues, contact an orthopedic urgent care center today to schedule an appointment.
