From front steps to parking lots, winter surfaces can become unexpected skating rinks. Falls happen, often to the wrists, ankles, knees, hips, and tailbone. The critical question after you catch your breath is: Do I need an X-ray? This guide breaks down fracture vs. sprain clues, what to do in the first 24–48 hours, when to walk into urgent care, and what recovery really looks like.

At AFC Urgent Care Beverly, we evaluate winter injuries quickly and perform on-site X-rays when indicated. If a fracture is present, we’ll splint, manage pain, and coordinate orthopedic follow-up. If it’s a sprain or contusion, we’ll tailor a rehab plan so you don’t lose weeks to avoidable stiffness. Find us at 5 Convenient locations in MA: Beverly, Swampscott, North Andover, Methuen, and Haverhill:  AFC Urgent Care Beverly.

Sprain vs. Fracture: What You’ll Notice

Sprain (ligament stretch/tear)

• Swelling and bruising develop over several hours.
• Pain with movement, but sometimes you can still bear weight or use the joint.
• Tenderness over soft tissue rather than a bony point
• Instability or a “giving way” feeling (moderate to severe sprains)

Fracture (bone break)

• Point tenderness directly over a bone
• Immediate swelling and bruising; sometimes deformity
• Pain with weight or use that feels sharp, mechanical, or “wrong.”
• Inability to bear weight/use the limb or a grinding sensation

Caveat: Sprains can be severe, and minor fractures can masquerade as sprains. If you’re not improving as expected in 3–5 days, get evaluated.

First Aid: R.I.C.E.+ in the Real World

• Rest: Keep weight off the injury for 24–48 hours.
• Ice: 15–20 minutes every 2–3 hours while awake for the first two days.
• Compression: Use an elastic wrap to control swelling—snug, not tight.
• Elevation: Above heart level when possible.
• + Pain control: Acetaminophen or NSAIDs as appropriate; avoid NSAIDs if a clinician has restricted them for you.

When Do I Need an X-Ray?

General Clues for Imaging

• Inability to bear weight or use the limb after a reasonable rest
• Bony point tenderness (pressing on a specific bone reproduces sharp pain)
• Visible deformity, significant swelling, or bruising early
• Numbness/tingling, coolness, or pale skin (circulation/nerve concerns)
• Pain not improving or worsening after 48–72 hours of RICE.

Ankle/Foot: Ottawa Ankle Rules (Simplified)

1. Consider an X-ray if any are true:

Pain in the malleolar zone (around ankle bones) and

• Bone tenderness at the posterior edge or tip of either malleolus, or
• Inability to bear weight both immediately and in the clinic

Pain in the midfoot zone and

• Bone tenderness at the base of the 5th metatarsal or navicular, or
• Inability to bear weight

Wrist/Hand Clues

• Anatomic snuffbox tenderness (thumb-side hollow) → concern for scaphoid fracture
• Pain with gripping or thumb motion; swelling at the wrist base
• Fall on outstretched hand (FOOSH) with immediate pain.

Knee/Hip/Back

• Inability to bear weight, locking, instability, or night pain
• Hip pain after a fall—especially in older adults—deserves imaging even if you can take a few steps.

Visit AFC Urgent Care Beverly for a hands-on exam; we’ll determine whether X-rays are necessary and interpret them on-site.

What to Expect at AFC Urgent Care Beverly

• Focused exam: Neurovascular checks (sensation, pulses), range of motion, point tenderness mapping
• On-site X-rays when indicated; rapid reads with next-step planning
• Splinting, slings, crutches, walking boots as needed
• Pain management strategy tailored to your health history
• Ortho referral and return precautions
• Work/school/sports notes to protect recovery

Recovery Roadmaps

Sprains (Mild to Moderate)

• 48–72 hours of RICE, then gentle motion to prevent stiffness
• Bracing or taping for support during activity
• Physical therapy or home exercises to restore strength and balance
• Most mild sprains improve substantially in 1–2 weeks; moderate sprains may take 3–6 weeks.

Fractures (Non-Displaced)

• Immobilization (splint/cast/boot) and follow-up imaging as directed
• Pain control, elevation, and gentle motion of adjacent joints to prevent stiffness
• Gradual return to activity guided by ortho/urgent care provider

Tailbone/Knee Contusions

• Ice, cushions for sitting, and activity modification
• Symptoms may persist; re-evaluate if they do not improve within 10–14 days.

When to Go to the ER

• Open fractures (bone through skin)
• Significant deformity, severe uncontrolled pain
• Numb/cold limb, weak pulse below the injury
• Head injury with loss of consciousness or confusion from the fall
• Hip fractures are suspected in older adults after a fall.

Otherwise, urgent care is a fast, cost-effective first stop.

Prevention for the Rest of Winter

• Footwear with good tread; consider ice cleats for frequent walkers
• Salt/sand steps and driveways early
• Night lighting for walkways; keep one hand free for balance on stairs
• Strength and balance training (especially for older adults)
• Assistive devices (e.g., canes, walkers) are used correctly.

FAQs

What if the X-ray is normal but the pain persists?

Soft-tissue injuries hurt. Some fractures (e.g., scaphoid) can be occult early, and splinting and repeat imaging may be needed.

Should I keep it immobile for a week?

Not fully. After acute swelling resolves (48–72 hours), gentle motion helps prevent stiffness. Follow your provider’s plan.

Can I go back to work tomorrow?

Depends on your job and injury. We’ll provide a return-to-work plan and restrictions.

Why Choose AFC Urgent Care Beverly

• On-site X-rays, splinting, and quick treatment
• Practical guidance for safe return to work, school, and sports
• Orthopedic coordination when needed
• 5 Convenient locations in MA: Beverly, Swampscott, North Andover, Methuen, and Haverhill

Get care today:  AFC Urgent Care Beverly.

If you can’t use the limb normally, have bony tenderness, see deformity, or pain isn’t improving after 48–72 hours, get an X-ray. Early clarity speeds safer recovery.