Participating in sports and physical activities is an excellent way to maintain health and fitness. However, these activities can sometimes lead to injury. Knowing where to seek treatment can make a significant difference in recovery time and overall health outcomes. Urgent care centers are well-equipped to handle a variety of sports injuries, providing quick and effective treatment. In this blog, we’ll explore the different types of sports injuries that can be treated at urgent care and the various benefits these facilities provide.
For same-day sports injury treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Clark. Our medical team is here for patients who have sustained sports injuries that require prompt medical treatment. The center is open seven days a week– just walk-in at your convenience!
Common Sports Injuries Treated at Urgent Care
Sprains and Strains
Sprains occur when ligaments– the tissues connecting bones to each other– are stretched or torn. Strains, on the other hand, involve muscles or tendons, which connect muscles to bones. Symptoms of both sprains and strains include pain, swelling, bruising, and limited movement in the affected area. Urgent care centers can accurately diagnose the injury and provide the necessary treatments, which may include the RICE method (rest, ice, compression, and elevation), splinting or bracing to stabilize the injured area, and prescription medications to manage pain levels.
Minor Fractures
Minor fractures, or hairline fractures, are a common injury treated at urgent care centers. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the injured limb. Medical providers at an urgent care center can diagnose the extent of the fracture using on-site digital X-rays. To treat the injury, they may apply splints or casts for immobilization, as well as prescribe medication to alleviate pain.
Dislocations
Dislocations occur when bones are forced out of their normal positions in a joint. This injury is common in contact sports and activities that include falls. Urgent care centers can provide initial treatment, including repositioning the dislocated bone, using slings or splints for immobilization, and administering pain medications.
Cuts and Abrasions
Cuts, abrasions, and bruises are common in sports, especially in activities like cycling, skateboarding, and soccer. These injuries can range from minor scrapes ro deeper lacerations. Urgent care centers can offer treatments for this, including cleaning and dressing the wound to prevent infection, and stitches for deeper cuts.
Benefits of Urgent Care for Sports Injuries
Urgent care centers offer several advantages for treating sports injuries, making them a valuable resource for athletes and active individuals. One of the primary benefits of urgent care centers is their convenience and accessibility. These centers are typically open seven days a week, often with extended hours, making them a practical option for those who sustain injuries outside of regular doctor’s office hours. Urgent care centers have walk-in clinic access, shorter wait times, cost-effective payment options, and comprehensive on-site services, like X-ray suites. The accessibility and efficiency make them an ideal choice for athletes seeking prompt, quality care for sports injuries.
Get Your Sports Injury Treated at AFC Urgent Care Clark
From sprains and strains to fractures and dislocations, urgent care centers offer quick and effective treatment options to help you get back in the game as soon as possible. Knowing which injuries can be treated at urgent care can ensure you receive the necessary medical attention, leading to a faster recovery. If you have recently sustained a sports injury, visit AFC Urgent Care Clark for walk-in diagnosis and treatment! Our medical team is dedicated to providing the best sports injury care for all patients in Clark, NJ and surrounding communities. We accept most major health insurance plans and offer cost-effective treatment options for self-paying patients. If you have any additional questions about sports injury treatment, or other services we provide, please contact us directly at (732) 301-5114.
