When you twist an ankle or suffer a fall, it can be hard to tell whether you're dealing with a sprain or a break. Both injuries can cause immediate pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the affected area, making them easy to confuse at first glance. However, knowing the key differences between a sprain and a fracture is essential for getting the proper treatment and avoiding further damage.
For same-day injury care, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care South Plainfield. We are conveniently located at 907 Oak Tree Avenue in South Plainfield, NJ, and we provide our services 7 days a week with no appointment required. Just walk-in!
Sprains vs. Breaks: What's The Difference?
Sprains and breaks are common injuries, but they affect the body differently. A sprain occurs when the ligaments, which are tough bands of tissue that connect bones, are stretched or torn, usually due to sudden twisting or impact. In contrast, a break (or fracture) involves a crack or complete break in the bone. While both injuries can result from similar accidents, such as falls or sports mishaps, the severity, treatment, and recovery time can vary significantly.
Treatment Options for a Broken Bone
Treating a broken bone depends on the fracture's type, location, and severity. However, the primary goal is always to realign the bone and keep it stable while it heals. Immobilization is the most common approach, using a cast, splint, or brace to prevent movement. In more complex cases, reduction may be needed. This is when a doctor manually or surgically realigns the bone fragments. Some fractures require surgical intervention involving metal pins, plates, or screws to hold the bone in place. Pain management, physical therapy, and regular follow-up X-rays are also key parts of the recovery process.
When To Seek Urgent Care
Knowing when to seek medical attention for an injury is crucial to prevent complications and ensure proper healing. You should see a doctor immediately if you experience severe pain, swelling, or deformity around the injured area. Other urgent signs include an inability to move or bear weight on the affected limb, numbness or tingling, and open wounds exposing bone or tissue. Even if symptoms seem mild but persist or worsen over time, getting a professional evaluation is essential to rule out fractures or severe sprains.
Get Rapid Injury Treatment at AFC Urgent Care South Plainfield
More so, if you are unsure whether your injury is a sprain or a break, it's always best to visit urgent care. Prompt evaluation by a healthcare professional can provide an accurate diagnosis, proper treatment, and pain relief, helping you avoid complications like improper healing or long-term damage. At AFC Urgent Care South Plainfield, we also offer quick access to X-rays and expert care without the long wait times of emergency rooms. This makes us an ideal option for timely and effective treatment of musculoskeletal injuries. We accept most health insurance plans and offer low-cost options for self-paying patients. If you have any additional questions about the services we provide, please contact us directly at (908) 222-3500.
