Getting hurt can happen at any point in your life. It can happen in an accident or an unexpected fall, or an injury can occur from something simple like landing on your ankle wrong after making an impressive frisbee catch.

No matter how it happens, the initial shock of the pain can quickly turn into a feeling of anxiety about what to do next. While some injuries like strains or sprains will eventually heal on their own, it is important to get checked out to ensure you aren’t suffering from a broken bone.

Our AFC Urgent Care Chapman Highway team explains how we can help diagnose your fracture below, so read on to learn more.

What Happens When a Bone Breaks?

Our bones have such vital roles in our bodies that they need to be strong enough to withstand our daily lives. They also have a little flexibility to them, which allows them to absorb moderate impacts throughout the day. However, bones are susceptible to fractures if the impact is too forceful or the movement is unnatural for your body.

If the force is too much, the bone can give way and either break completely or fracture in one or more places. When you get hurt, look for swelling at the injury site, sensitivity to touch or pain with movement, and visual deformities. Noticing any of this should prompt you to come see us for an X-ray.

Bones That We See Fractures in Often

• Wrists
• Ankles
• Hips
• Clavicle (collarbone)

How Does an X-ray Machine Work?

X-rays are one of the more important medical advancements of our time. They are able to take an image of the inside of your body, which can help us pinpoint exactly what is causing you pain. We use digital X-rays at AFC! This type of X-ray is different from the traditional X-rays that are developed on film.

Digital X-ray images are uploaded onto a computer and can be zoomed in on or manipulated to get an even closer look at your injury. We are looking for a dark space around your bone or an obvious crack at the injury site. If we do notice a fracture, we can discuss treatment options like slings, casts and pain management strategies.

Digital X-ray Benefits Over Traditional X-rays

• Reduced radiation exposure
• Clearer images
• Fast turnaround
• Reduced environmental impact

Our X-ray technology can help you feel better faster. Come see us at AFC Urgent Care Chapman Highway for an X-ray today.