Falling is a common cause of injury, particularly among older adults and children. Falls can lead to a range of medical conditions requiring treatment. Some of the most common injuries resulting from falls include fractures, such as broken wrists, hips, and ankles, as well as sprains and strains. Head injuries, including concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), are also frequent, especially in more severe falls.

If you suffer a fall and are in need of rapid injury care, AFC Urgent Care Centennial can help. Our walk-in urgent care clinic offers same-day injury care to patients in Centennial, CO, and the surrounding areas. Simply walk in, we never require that you schedule an appointment in advance.

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Types of Injuries Caused by Falls

Fall-related injuries can range from minor to severe, depending on factors like the height of the fall, the surface impact, and the individual's age or health condition. Here are some common types of injuries resulting from falls:

• Fractures: The most frequent type of injury, often involving the wrists, arms, ankles, and hips. Hip fractures are particularly common in older adults.
• Sprains and strains: Ligaments, muscles, or tendons can be overstretched or torn during a fall, often affecting the ankles, knees, or wrists.
• Head injuries: Falls can cause concussions, skull fractures, or more serious traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), which may require immediate emergency care.
• Spinal cord injuries: A fall that impacts the spine can lead to vertebral fractures or more serious damage to the spinal cord, potentially resulting in long-term mobility issues or paralysis.
• Bruises and contusions: Although usually less severe, deep bruises can still be painful and may require treatment if they involve significant tissue damage.
• Cuts and lacerations: Falls onto sharp or hard objects can cause open wounds that may need stitches or other wound care.
• Dislocations: Falls can force joints, such as the shoulder or elbow, out of place, requiring medical intervention to reposition the joint.

After a fall, you may find yourself in a state of shock. It is important to take time to assess your injuries. Considering your age and the severity of the fall is important when you’re determining if your injuries require medical care.

Avoiding a Fall

The best way to avoid an injury from a fall is to take measures to avoid falls. Preventing fall-related injuries requires a combination of awareness, environment adjustments, and maintaining physical health. Sometimes, falls are simply unavoidable. However, simple measures such as keeping floors free of clutter, ensuring proper lighting in all areas, and using non-slip mats in wet areas like bathrooms, can significantly reduce the risk of falls. For older adults, balance and strength exercises are essential to improve stability and prevent trips or stumbles. Wearing appropriate footwear, avoiding slippery surfaces, and using handrails when navigating stairs are other practical ways to minimize the chances of falling.

When to Seek Medical Care After a Fall

Seeking urgent care services after a fall is crucial. This is because some injuries, especially internal or head injuries, may not show immediate symptoms but can worsen over time without treatment. Delaying care could lead to prolonged pain, limited mobility, or more serious health risks. At AFC Urgent Care Centennial, our walk-in clinic makes it easy to get immediate treatment following a fall. Our clinic is equipped with a digital X-ray suite to check for internal injuries such as fractured bones.

Walk Into AFC Centennial for Same-Day Injury Care in Centennial, CO

At AFC Urgent Care Centennial, we understand that falls can happen unexpectedly. That is why it is important to have access to rapid care. The walk-in clinic at AFC Centennial offers rapid injury care to patients near Centennial, CO, on a walk-in basis - 7 days a week. We maintain short wait times so that you can get the care that you need when you need it. We accept most medical insurance plans and offer affordable care. Simply walk into the clinic for same-day injury care!