Sprains and fractures are common Injuries. However, although they sometimes have similar symptoms, they are vastly different injuries. Understanding the difference between them is important so that you can understand when you should seek medical care for your injury. Learn about the difference between sprains and fractures and the treatment options for both. Visit AFC Urgent Care Braintree for same-day injury care without an appointment near Boston, MA.
The Differences Between a Sprain and a Fracture
Sprains and fractures are both very common minor injuries that can affect anyone. Although they are minor in nature, the injuries themselves and the treatment for fractures and sprains are vastly different. Identifying the differences between the symptoms of a sprain and fracture can be difficult, however, it is important to know to ensure you seek adequate medical care for your injury.
Sprains:
Cause: Sprains result from overstretching or tearing the tough tissues that connect your joints called ligaments. They only occur around a joint, and the most commonly strained area is typically the ankle.
Symptoms:
- Pain around a joint
- Swelling around a joint
- Bruising and discoloration of skin in the affected area
- Joint stiffness
Diagnosis & Treatment: A medical professional can evaluate your pain and take x-ray images to rule out a fracture, broken bone, or desolated joint. Sprains can be treated at home with the RICE method: Rest, Ice, Compression & Elevation. It is crucial to continue using the affected joint to promote healing.
Fractures:
Cause: A fracture is a partial or complete break of a bone. Fractures can occur anywhere in the body, but usually do not impact joints. In severe cases, fractured bones can break the skin, leaving the bone exposed. For severe fractures, seek immediate medical care in the emergency room.
Symptoms:
- Deformed limbs
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Intense pain
- Inability to move or bear weight on the affected area
- Numbness or tingling in the affected area
Treatment: Fractures require a medical diagnosis via digital x-ray. Depending on the fracture, you could require further care by a specialist, such as surgery. Treating a fracture often requires a splint or cast application, depending on the severity and location of the injury.
Get Same-Day Acute Injury Care at AFC Urgent Care Braintree
If you’ve suffered an injury but are unsure of the extent of your injury or are questioning whether you require medical attention, it is important to understand the common difference in symptoms between a fracture and a sprain. Both sprains and fractures can heal incorrectly without proper treatment, which can lead to further complications. At AFC Urgent Care Braintree, our facility is equipped with an on-site x-ray suite which allows our board-certified medical staff to quickly and accurately diagnose your injury.
Getting injury care fast is made easy at AFC Urgent Care Braintree. Our walk-in clinic never requires you to have an appointment to receive medical care. Simply walk into our clinic, or schedule an appointment online. We accept most medical insurance plans and offer low-cost treatment options for patients paying out of pocket. Walk into our clinic today for acute injury care. For additional questions regarding our clinic, please contact us directly.
