Get Relief for Sprain and Strain at Family Urgent Care
Imagine your child having a blast of joy at the family picnic, playing kickball or baseball! You take a swing, hit the ball, and then, wham! Your child got hit with the ball and started wincing, holding the ankle.
Now you feel confused as a parent! Is it a sprain or a strain? You’re unsure what to do next.
Pause for a moment! Whether it’s you or your child who has sustained a minor injury, you can visit Family Urgent Care without any further thought.
Our expert medical team will assess your symptoms and determine the underlying cause of your muscle pain.
You can walk into our clinic with your child at any of our locations in Indiana and Illinois.
Sprain vs. Strain: What’s the Difference?
| Sprain | Strain |
|---|---|
| A sprain happens when ligaments (the tough bands of tissue that connect bone to bone at a joint) are stretched or torn. | A strain occurs when muscles or tendons (the cords that connect muscles to bones) are overstretched or torn. |
| Common sites: ankle, knee, wrist. | Common sites: hamstring, lower back, and shoulder. |
| Example: Twisting your ankle and tearing the ligament. | Example: Lifting something heavy and pulling your back muscle. |
| Symptoms: pain, swelling, bruising, limited ability to move the joint, and sometimes a "pop" at the time of injury. | Symptoms: pain, muscle spasms, weakness, swelling, and limited movement. |
Many sprains and strains can heal on their own, but in some cases, seeking treatment from urgent care centers is recommended. At Family Urgent Care, you will receive treatments such as pain management and follow-up care.
Common Symptoms: How to Identify a Sprain or Strain?
You might observe bruising, pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the injured area. The main difference in symptoms is that sprains might cause bruising, while strains usually don’t.
However, strains can sometimes lead to muscle spasms. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to see a doctor and get treated. Symptoms can vary from person to person, depending on the severity of the injury.
When Should You Contact a Doctor?
It is essential to seek medical care services if your pain is getting worse or if you notice any of the following conditions:
- If you are finding it hard to walk
- Unable to carry weight
- You have severe and persistent swelling or bruising
- Severe pain that doesn’t improve with rest
- If you feel numbness, tingling, or weakness in the injured limb
- If you are concerned that you might have a minor fracture.
Early care can prevent further damage to your muscles. Receiving proper medical attention will enable your healthcare professional to assess your symptoms and recommend an appropriate treatment.
First Aid or Treatment Options for Sprain and Strain
Some possible treatment options for sprains and strains are:
- The doctor might advise you to avoid any strenuous activity until you fully recover
- Put an ice pack on the area for 10 to 15 minutes as recommended by your doctor
- Avoid alcohol, running, or direct massage of the affected area for the first 3 days of the injury.
- Your doctor might prescribe anti-inflammatory medications, as well as topical or oral pain-relief medications, to help you feel relief.
- If symptoms worsen within the first 24 hours, consult your doctor for further medical evaluation.
How Can Family Urgent Care Help in Treating Sprains and Strains?
At Family Urgent Care, we understand the pain that sprains and strains can cause. That’s why we’re equipped with advanced X-ray machines, which enable us to image the injured area and provide diagnosis and care accurately.
Our urgent care facility offers reliable medical solutions for sprains and strains. You can also connect with our doctor via phone or video appointment, wherever you are. Our online medical services enable patients to consult with healthcare
professionals from the comfort of their own homes for initial management and follow-ups.
So, don’t hesitate any longer. Receive appropriate medical care at Family Urgent Care today. Book your appointment now or simply walk in for immediate assistance.
