Fractures & Dislocations: When to Seek Urgent Care?

A fracture refers to a broken bone, while a dislocation happens when a joint is forced out of position. Both injuries can be extremely painful and require immediate attention. But how do you know when to visit a priority care clinic or seek emergency medical treatment?

In this guide, we’ll help you identify the signs, symptoms, and treatment options for fractures and dislocations so you can get the right care at the right time.

Signs You May Have a Fracture or Dislocation

Common Symptoms of a Fracture:

• Intense pain, especially when moving the injured area
• Swelling, bruising, or tenderness
• Deformity or unusual bending of the limb
• Inability to move the affected part
• A cracking or snapping sound at the time of injury

Common Symptoms of a Dislocation:

• Visible joint deformity
• Severe pain and swelling
• Limited movement or inability to move the joint
• Numbness or tingling around the injured area

If you experience any of these symptoms, seeking urgent care at a trusted first care medical group is essential.

When to Visit a Priority Care Clinic?

Not all fractures and dislocations require an ER visit. A priority care clinic can handle minor fractures and simple dislocations without the long wait times of an emergency room.

Go to a Priority Care Clinic for:

✅ Suspected fractures that do not break the skin (closed fractures)
✅ Minor dislocations (like fingers, toes, or mild shoulder dislocations)
✅ Sprains and strains that cause severe pain but do not limit movement completely
✅ Swelling and bruising without major deformity

At First Care Medical, experienced doctors will assess your condition using X-ray diagnostics for fractures and provide non-surgical fracture treatment when possible.

When to Visit the Emergency Room?

Some fractures and dislocations require immediate emergency care, especially if there is a risk of long-term damage.

Go to the ER for:

???? Open fractures (where the bone pierces the skin)
???? Severe fractures with visible deformity
???? Joint dislocations with severe pain and numbness
???? Fractures in critical areas (spine, skull, or ribs)
???? Loss of feeling or circulation in the affected limb

In these cases, don’t wait—call emergency services immediately.

Treatment Options for Fractures & Dislocations

At a priority care clinic, doctors will evaluate your injury and recommend one of the following treatments:

For Fractures:

✔️ Immobilization (using a cast, brace, or splint)
✔️ Pain management with medications
✔️ Physical therapy for recovery
✔️ Surgery (only in severe cases)

For Dislocations:

✔️ Joint realignment (manually repositioning the joint)
✔️ Immobilization to prevent further injury
✔️ Pain relief and anti-inflammatory medication
✔️ Rehabilitation exercises for joint mobility

Seeking treatment at First Care Medical ensures that you receive comprehensive care from expert orthopedic specialists.

Preventing Fractures & Dislocations

While accidents happen, taking preventive measures can reduce your risk:

• ????️‍♂️ Maintain strong bones with a calcium-rich diet
• ????‍♀️ Stay active to improve balance and coordination
• ???? Wear proper footwear to avoid falls
• ???? Seek early treatment for joint pain and weakness
• ???? Make your home safe by removing hazards like loose rugs

By following these tips, you can minimize your chances of serious injuries.

Why Choose First Care Medical for Urgent Care?

At First Care Medical, we specialize in treating fractures, dislocations, and other musculoskeletal injuries with expert care and minimal wait times. Our services include:

✔️ X-ray diagnostics for fractures
✔️ Non-surgical fracture treatment
✔️ Urgent care for minor bone and joint injuries
✔️ Affordable, high-quality medical attention

Whether you need immediate treatment for a minor fracture or are unsure whether your injury requires urgent care, our experienced doctors are here to help.

Final Thoughts

Understanding when to seek urgent care for fractures & dislocations can prevent long-term complications and speed up recovery. If you’re experiencing pain, swelling, or limited movement, don’t wait—visit a priority care clinic like First Care Medical today!

???? Need immediate care? Contact us now! ????