It’s not uncommon for kids to be sidelined by an injury during an athletic competition.  While some require minimal medical treatment, other injuries demand immediate care.

To make sure you’re prepared for common injuries that may occur this fall sports season, here’s what you should know about the difference between an injury that requires an emergency room visit and a non-life-threatening injury that can be treated at an urgent care center.

What qualifies as a non-life-threatening injury?

From sprains to strains, and bruises to fractures, there are all sorts of injuries that can happen out on the field.  And when your student athlete gets hurt, your first instinct is to take them to the emergency room.  Emergency rooms are well equipped to handle any given life-threatening emergency, but common sports injuries such as bruising or an ankle sprain can be treated at an urgent care center at half the cost and wait time.

When qualifies as a life-threatening injury?

While some injuries like a sprain require minimal medical attention, other injuries should be treated by emergency personnel.  Injuries involving trauma to the head, a severe fracture or break, uncontrollable bleeding, or pains involving the chest are cases for a visit to the local emergency room.

Where should I go for treatment?

Parents always root for their children to have fun, but to also be safe.  And in the case of having a rewarding sports season, it’s important to have a plan in place if an injury occurs.

AFC Urgent Care Arlington provides a number of medical services for athletes such as treatment for injuries such as:

• Sprains
• Strains
• Bruises
• Lacerations
• Abrasions

Our walk-in clinic is fully equipped with an on-site digital x-ray system to deliver quick and accurate results of your injury.  We provide timely and affordable care so you can be in and out of our urgent care center and back on the field.

For more information about the services we provide, please call us at 781-648-4572.