should i go to urgent care for sprained wrist

Your wrist should be past the edge. Learn More: What will urgent care do for sprained ankle? Quick Overview: The Top 10 Wristband For Sprained Wrist in This Market: 15 Best Wristband For Sprained Wrist Reviews & Buying Guide Thing to Consider Before Buying Best Wristband For Sprained Wrist. Overall, going to urgent care for a sprained wrist can offer many advantages, including fast diagnosis and treatment, a cost-effective price, comprehensive medical care, and a more personalized setting. Between 5-10 days after the initial trauma your bruise will begin to turn a yellow or green shade. How should I decide? Rest the injured wrist and allow it to heal. the National Board of Physicians and Surgeons in Family Medicine. Repeat wrapping diagonally across your palm, creating a crisscross. X-rays can show whether you have a fracture or if you have fluid or inflammation around joints. If you have a broken hand, a doctor is the best person to diagnose and treat it. An elastic bandage. Dr. Saadai Muscle strains can either occur suddenly or develop slowly over time due to repetitive movements involved in a sport, such as running, throwing, and jumping. They also provide extended hours and provide weekend and evening hours for added convenience. If youve been given a splint, remove it before doing the exercises. In some cases, the ligament might separate from the bone. Make an Appointment with Us Referrals are welcome but not necessary. Urgent care provides a number of important benefits that can help prevent long-term complications and can help individuals quickly return to everyday activities. If you are having a medical emergency, please call 911. to her native state of California. Elevation: To decrease swelling, raise the wrist above heart level by resting it on a pillow when sitting or sleeping. Put ice or cold packs on your wrist for 10 to 20 minutes at a time. We avoid using tertiary references. This often happens during sports that commonly involve falls, such as: The injury can also be caused by overuse, which might occur in sports like tennis and boxing. While the exact timeline of healing can be highly unpredictable and vary depending on the severity of the sprain, the steps taken at urgent care can be estimated with some accuracy. This one likely applies more to children than adults, but X-rays are a valuable tool in showing the location of a swallowed object. Common symptoms of a broken wrist include: If you think your wrist is broken, get medical help immediately. Using the other hand, gently bend your wrist up and back. Where you can get a fast, affordable X-ray when you need it most? The average cost of a wrist X-ray is $190, according . 3. Wrist strain, sprain, tendinitis. What will urgent care do for sprained ankle? The type of pain changes or increases, such as minor pain and stiffness in the morning to sharp pain with any movement. If youre an athlete or need to use your injured foot, leg, hand, or arm for your job, its important to get checked out as soon as possible. You should follow your doctors instructions closely and slowly begin to do all of the normal activities you enjoyed before your injury. Make sure to rest, use ice packs, use a brace or splint, try pain relief techniques, and get enough sleep. During these check-ins, the physician may also check for any signs of infection, inflammation or other symptoms of complications. A timely visit to an urgent care clinic can ensure that proper treatment is given and can help to avoid any long-term impairments to the wrist and arm. Depending on the amount of pain and swelling you have, you might need a local or general anesthetic . Don't overmedicate. How to wrap a sprained wrist After your injury, apply ice to reduce swelling. A sprain is a type of injury that stretched or tears the ligaments that connect two or more bones in the body. Actually, once the initial swelling window is over, just icing will slow down your recovery. Walk-in clinics are designed to treat non-severe illnesses, such as a sprained ankle, a cold, or a rash. In most cases, a sprained wrist will heal on its own and you can treat it at home. Usually, a wrist pain is caused by physical trauma to the wrist. Failure to seek urgent care can also prolong healing, meaning that individuals can be sidelined from normal activities for an extended period. How can you prevent yourself from spraining your ankle apex? This makes normal, everyday activities difficult and can cause a lot of discomfort. Wrap an ice pack with a clean towel, then place it on your wrist for 20 minutes. If the injury persists or worsens, you should contact your medical provider and discuss further options. Once the initial assessment is completed, the physician or nurse practitioner on duty will be better able to determine what treatment is necessary to reduce pain, swelling, and aid in the healing process. Strengthening the muscles surrounding the wrist joint may help maintain alignment, and stretching may help prevent overstretching in the surrounding muscles and ligaments. It happens when one or several bones in your wrist crack or break. Urgent care is an option when you have an immediate need but cannot get in to see your primary care doctor on the same day. Emergency care professionals will typically assess the severity of your sprain and check for associated swelling, tenderness, and range of motion. First, stay in communication with your doctor or urgent care provider. 2005-2022 Healthline Media a Red Ventures Company. To ensure a speedy recovery and minimize the chance of any long-term problems, attending an urgent care center is the best course of action. Depending on the size, location and severity of your bruise, it could appear shades of blue, purple or black. Whether or not visiting urgent care is necessary depends on the severity of the sprain and the degree to which it is affecting the daily life of the person with the injury. Use caution when walking in rain or icy weather. Here are a few common injuries that might warrant getting an X-ray to check the damage: Think you might need an X-ray to better understand your injury? The devices send a beam of energy through your body and that energy is absorbed differently depending on the material receiving it. You can also try to reduce the swelling and inflammation with ice. Going to an urgent care center can provide many benefits and is especially helpful if you have a sprained wrist. A compression bandage can also help control swelling. Walk-in clinics can also treat non-emergency medical issues, such as urinary tract infections. Most wrist sprains can be treated with home remedies and exercises. Unfortunately, some individuals may not prioritize a trip to an urgent care clinic, instead opting to try to manage the injury and associated symptoms at home. Put ice on the sprained wrist promptly after getting injured. Because poison ivy can break out up to 21 days after exposure, UNC Urgent Care facilities see many patients a week after they come into contact with it. severe pain, especially when moving your hand, recently sustained a serious injury, like a vehicle collision. However, if you choose not to seek a diagnosis from a doctor, its important not to underestimate the seriousness of your injury. received his bachelors of science with great distinction in biochemistry and honors in This could mean regular visits to the urgent care to provide updates and continue care with the same medical professional. The ligaments are partially torn. Non-surgical treatment A mild wrist sprain can be treated in urgent care facilities using home care treatments. Dr. Jennifer Shoquist is board certified in Family Medicine. completed a fellowship in sports medicine. Want healthy tips in your inbox? Second, urgent care centers typically provide more cost-effective care than going to the ER. ERs are usually overcrowded and can take hours before you are able to be seen. Grade I: This least-serious sprain grade involves some stretching and tearing of the ligament, with mild tenderness, stiffness, and swelling. Go to the emergency room or call 911 if you or a loved one experience: Her special interest Where can I get help fast? FastMed is one of the few urgent care providers in the nation that has earned The Joint Commissions coveted Gold Seal of Approval for quality, safety and infection control in ambulatory healthcare. In x-ray images, fat and muscle appear as gray areas because of that absorption. Unless there is severe pain, deformity, crushed tissue or open wounds, there is no need to rush to an emergency department or urgent care for treatment. Wrap around once. Use this list to select a high quality, effective wrist brace that matches your needs. As always with medical advice, it is important to consult a doctor or other health care professional to receive a tailored recommendation best suited to the individual and the specifics of their condition. This can happen when you do something sudden, such as tugging on your wrist abruptly while you're doing a activity like swimming. Wrap diagonally across your palm, between your thumb and pointer finger again. Sprained wrists are one of the most common types of injuries that can and do occur. Here's why. Our primary care doctors at Irvine, Fountain Valley, and Costa Mesa centers are ready to take care of all your primary healthcare needs, like the flu shot, physical examination, and treatment for acute or chronic illnesses. native to Orange County and returned home after completing his medical degree at the University Face your palm upward, then rotate and face it downward. (Ligaments are the connective tissue holding bones and joints together.) To further reduce swelling, it is also helpful to keep the wrist elevated and provide some gentle shoulder and elbow mobility exercises. returned home to California for residency training in Family Medicine at Long Beach Memorial However, when a person visits the urgent care with a sprained wrist, how long will it take to begin the healing process? This is especially true for athletes who do repetitive motions or other activities that strain the wrists. Sprains are one of the most common types of injuries that we experience as humans, and often require the attention of a medical professional to ensure proper healing and no additional complications. Did I break something or could it just be a strain or sprain. A doctor can diagnose a wrist sprain by using different tests. She brings many years of quality primary care experience in both California and Utah. Diabetes, Geriatric Care, and Hospice Care. Then the big questions: What can I do about it? He received his undergraduate degree from Southern Illinois University, medical degree The use of an ice pack, a bag of frozen vegetables, or cold compresses held against the wrist can help reduce swelling, pain, and inflammation. purposes of general patient information only, and is not to be relied upon as a substitute for Dr. Hye Lee is a board-certified Family Practice Physician, affiliated with the It's best to consult with a sports medicine physician about any joint, ligament, and related sports injury. In a severe sprain, your ligament will heal in 8 to 12 weeks. If the ligament has partly torn, its a grade 2 wrist sprain. Grade II: Grade II sprains involve an incomplete tearing of the ligament. Most urgent care facilities also offer onsite digital X-rays and other imaging services, as well as access to laboratory services. Our experts will check for swelling, tenderness, and intensity of pain in the affected area. As always, discuss your options with your healthcare professional. Youll probably hear clicking and buzzing noises as the X-ray machine does its work. While seeing a physician is still paramount, there are many steps to take on your own in addition to a doctor visit. If your wrist sprain doesnt improve in 48 hours, go to a doctor. Dr. Jay Friehling is a Family Practice physician who has worked in Orange County If your wrist sprain doesnt improve in 48 hours, go to the doctor. Check out our locations page to find the clinic nearest you and schedule your visit today. But if you have a sudden and severe illness, injury, or infection, you should visit an urgent care center. Before you go about wrapping a sprained wrist, make sure you have the necessary supplies available, such as: Scissors. How often should injuries such as sprains be iced apex? Try not use your wrist for at least 48 hours. Ankle Injury Pain. Minor sprains and strains usually respond to ice, rest and over-the-counter pain medications. Diagnosing and Treating a Broken Bone in Your Hand, How to Massage a Sprained Ankle Correctly, 8 Best Wrist Braces in 2022: For Carpal Tunnel, Wrist Pain & More. Learn More: How can you prevent yourself from spraining your ankle apex? Your best bet is to alternate hot/cold. staff of Hoag Hospital since 1964 and also of Fountain Valley Memorial Hospital. Compression: Have your child wear an elastic bandage to decrease swelling. Depending on the severity of the injury, the patient may also need to take a round of anti-inflammatory medications or take part in immobilization using a splint, cast or brace. Repetitive motions, like typing on a keyboard, can create weakness and stiffness in your wrists and fingers. Urgent care does not require an appointment and generally offers faster treatment than other medical centers. After completing his residency in family practice he successfully A sports injury is never fun but the silver lining is that a quick X-ray at CareSpot or MedPost can help you get on the road to recovery fast. However, there are injuries and conditions that should not be treated by an . Learn about the many kinds of FOOSH (fallen onto on outstretched hand) injuries, as well as how they are treated and about the recovery process. If you are experiencing ankle pain, but can continue to walk without feeling unbearable pain, then you may be able to wait for a doctors appointment. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. If you have a grade 3 wrist sprain, you may need surgery. Have a basin with hot water next to a basin with ice water and alternate between the two. Additionally, it is important to avoid activities that cause tension in the wrist or shorten the range of motion. Put a thin cloth between the ice pack and your skin. When to See Us for Fractures, Sprains, & Bruising. Because of the staffs advanced knowledge of minor injuries, patients are likely to receive more detailed and personalized advice and care than they would at the ER. If these injuries are not addressed quickly and correctly, individuals run the risk of permanent damage and diminished physical capacity, including: Reduced strength in the affected wrist and arm, Pain and weakness that persists even after healing, Chronic pain caused by the reduced joint function. The most common symptom of a sprained wrist is pain. Mild sprains heal in 2 weeks, while moderate sprains can take 6 to 8 weeks. Dr. Coyne is a board certified family practice physician and a California native. If you think you may have a sprain, the first step is to assess the injury. However, you should consider visiting an urgent care center if you experience any of the following symptoms after a muscle strain: Persistent pain or pain that radiates down the legs or arms. And you should definitely go to urgent care if you're experiencing pain, especially if it hurts to walk and/or move your feet. Apply ice, then wrap the area with a clean towel. Also, give your wrist the rest it needs. A sprain is an injury to a joint in your body (typically the ankle,knee or wrist) where the soft tissues that holds the bones together are stressed, often from an injury while doing a physical activity. If you experience any of the following symptoms, it's best to visit a wrist doctor at an emergency care center immediately: Obvious deformity; Severe pain; Numbness; Limited movement; Weakened . GMR Web Team, Sudden jerking movements, such as trying to get up fast after tripping from something, Change in the skins appearance, such as a dent or gap (rare), Persistent pain or pain that radiates down the legs or arms, Joint pops or cracks when the injury occurred or if you move the affected area post-injury, Difficulty walking, sitting, or getting out of bed, Inability to move or bend the affected area, Your symptoms persist even after over-the-counter pain relievers or medications, Provide home-care tips, including stretching or strengthening exercises to regain strength and range of motion, Refer you to a physiotherapist (during recovery) to maximize the flexibility and stability of the affected joint, thus reducing the risk of re-injuries, Develop safe plans for returning to work, sports, or other physical activities, Advise you to reduce or avoid some work activities to prevent repetitive injuries. Dr. Tom was awarded a Regents Scholarship to attend medical school at UC Irvine. This can lead to swelling, pain, and an inability to use the joint in a normal way (ie bear weight, causing limping and/or weakness) and graduated from Medical School at Tehran University of Medical Science in Iran. Orange County Medical Association. If you're an athlete or need to walk, run, or use your injured foot, leg, hand, or arm for your job, getting checked out at Urgent Care guarantees you get the care you need right away. Rochester, MN 507-266-9100 . Repeat twice a day. Our digital x-ray technology . Pain and swelling and occur with many injuries, but if it keeps up after multiple days, its probably time to have it checked at urgent care, where they might recommend an X-ray. You might need a splint or brace if you have a moderate sprain. When you suffer a sprain, whether in the wrist or any other joint, it is important to get proper medical care right away. However, resting does not mean that you have to avoid all activities. Typically, surgery is only needed for severe injuries. . Dr. Williams is Board Certified in Family Medicine and Sports Medicine. If the tendon is partially torn, you may need to wait for it to heal before doing anything else. The types of wrist sprains include: In a grade 1 wrist sprain, the ligaments are overstretched. On the other hand, a strain is when a muscle or tendon is overstretched or torn. These pain relievers are available over the counter. then earned a Medical Degree at the New York Medical College. His healthcare interests include To ensure that an injury resolves as quickly as possible and doesnt worsen, follow up visits to the urgent care center may be necessary over the course of recovery. Try to do this every 1 to 2 hours for the next 3 days (when you are awake) or until the swelling goes down. With prompt and appropriate self-care and medical attention, most wrist sprains can heal in four to eight weeks. She Avoid squeezing too hard. Avoid movement and take any necessary pain medication. The pain can be immense hence hindering activities like walking, especially if you move your foot in the direction of the ligament that was affected. The general timeline for healing a sprained wrist at urgent care can vary greatly and is ultimately dependent on the patients individual healing timeline and compliance with. The best treatment plan depends on the severity of your sprain. A sprain can happen in any part of the body where ligaments are found such as sprained ankles, wrists, feet and knees. When should you go to urgent care? American Osteopathic Association and the American College of Osteopathic Family Practice.She Unlike other medical procedures, X-rays typically dont require much advance planning or preparation, making them a key tool for suddenly painful moments. You should also keep your ankle elevated to help reduce the swelling. These problems can manifest and persist long after the initial injury, and can affect a persons quality of life. Prewrap tape or locking tabs. When you sprain your wrist, your ligaments become overstretched, leading to damage and inflammation. Sprain Symptoms You're likely to experience: Swelling Bruising Pain Warmth around the place of injury A popping or dislocating sensation These symptoms do not guarantee proper self-diagnosis. Ice: Apply cold packs or compresses to the wrist for 10-20 minutes every few hours. Dr Fishbein has been in the practice of family medicine for over 35 years in Ligaments are bands of tissue that attach bones at a joint. Downey Regional Medical Center in California and has been a primary care physician since 2005. Any concerns you have about your health or the health of your family should If your foot is bruised, deformed or you cannot walk at all, go to the emergency room. Her interest in medicine started at an early age and has since evolved All rights reserved. For more information, visit fastmed.com. Many people choose to take over-the-counter medications to help relieve the pain and swelling caused by a sprained wrist. Athletes, busy parents, and active people of all types are often tempted to shake it off or tough it out, but this is not a good idea if you want your wrist to heal as quickly as possible. Treat different medical conditions and injuries at our urgent care college clinic. Overall, going to urgent care for a sprained wrist can offer many advantages, including fast diagnosis and treatment, a cost-effective price, comprehensive medical care, and a more personalized setting. If your wrist sprain is mild, it might get better without medical help. ER visits are often very expensive and are not always covered by insurance, while urgent care visits are typically covered by private insurance policies and are often much less expensive than a regular doctors visit. Since 2005, she worked at Kaiser Permanente, VNCOC, and Splints and wraps may be used in cases of mild sprains where immobilization is not necessary. The muscles and tendons need time to heal before they can be worked. Visit one of our urgent care clinic in Irvine, urgent care center in Fountain Valley, and Urgent Care clinic in Costa Mesa, CA, for severe muscle strains/sprain. Any action you take based on the information found on CGAA.org is strictly at your discretion. While that pain might also be caused by a strain or sprain (which won't show up on an X-ray), an X-ray can help ensure you don't have a break. Next, bring it behind your fingers. You can also do this exercise with your palm facing down. But new research suggests this may not be the best approach, as too much rest and ice can prolong the healing process. Hold a light weight, like a 2-pound dumbbell. Additionally, the physician or nurse practitioner may apply an ice pack to reduce swelling, order physical therapy to help the wrist heal more quickly, and/or prescribe oral anti-inflammatory medications to help manage pain. The first question that goes through your mind: What happened? Do the moves two or three times a day: Bend your elbow to 90 degrees and place it against your side. Sprains are something different; they refer to damaged ligaments rather than bones. Finally, urgent care centers also tend to provide a more personalized and less intimidating atmosphere than a hospital ER. The first step in treating a sprained wrist is to rest it. Dr. Tom is a board certified family medicine physician and native Californian. At home, you can treat a mild wrist sprain with the RICE method: A physical therapist can show you gentle wrist exercises to minimize stiffness and improve mobility. How long should I compress a sprained wrist? In conclusion, it is necessary to visit urgent care for a sprained wrist if the injury is causing severe pain or significant limitations in movement. Rosenzweig L. (2015). Sports, hiking, swimming, and even . Urgent care clinics such as MedHelp have the diagnostic and treatment tools to give you the immediate treatment you need at a fraction of the cost of an emergency room visit. Broken bones, sprains, and strains are common at any time of year, of course, but there are plenty of activities during this time of year that can result in serious injury. Yellow or green. Your doctor will need to manipulate the pieces back into position, a procedure known as a reduction. Elevate your wrist while youre resting, sleep with your wrist elevated on a pillow, and take over-the-counter pain medications if needed. 1. It is always important to inform yourself about the different options when seeking medical care and consider all factors before making a decision. 5 Steps to Wrap a Wrist Sprain It can be difficult to wrap a wrist sprain by yourself. Taping the wrists is a good idea, especially if you have a history of wrist injuries. Place one end of the bandage on the inside of your wrist. Family Care Centers Medical Group has provided quality primary care and urgent care services to the residents of Orange County since 1982. Check if you have a sprain or strain. Family Practice residency at Kern Medical Center in Bakersfield, California. The most common symptoms are swelling and bruising. This can range from weightlifting to performing exercises or activities that require gripping an object with the hand. Ankle sprains are common injuries. practicing in our community for over 20 years. Make a fist, placing your thumb around your fingers. Severe/very painful sprains may require urgent medical attention and should be seen by a medical professional in an urgent care setting as soon as possible. 2022 Family Care Centers Medical Group Inc. | Urgent Care Digital Marketing by The pain occurs in the location of the injury and is often felt in multiple locations around the joint. Should You Go to an Urgent Care for Sprains and Strains, How long does a sprained wrist take to heal? Ice. Fortunately, most sprains can be treated with rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE). A wrist sprain is often characterized by pain, tenderness, swelling, and stiffness of the wrist joint. All information published on this website is provided in good faith and for general use only. In the meantime, you should rest your wrist, especially if you don't know if it's broken or sprained. Additionally, light exercises such as wrist curls, finger flexion and extension, and finger abduction can be done to encourage blood flow and prevent muscle weakness or stiffness. While waiting for the sprained wrist to heal, it is important to stay active and keep the wrist loose, but in moderation. Urgent care also is readily available and convenient for treating minor medical emergencies such as sprains, strains, burns, contusions, cuts requiring stitches, and minor fractures. I have sprained my ankles alot playing indoor soccer over the years so if it were me, I'd probably RICE rest, ice, compression, elevate, until symptoms like swelling and bruising go away. You should also seek help if you have: If you dont have a medical health provider, you can search for one. In more serious sprains, the swelling can be severe. 1) Rest your arm flat on a table with your palm facing down and your wrist hanging off the edge. Compression bandages are. Grade 2 sprain (moderate). Keep an eye out for any redness or changes in the color of your skin around your wrist injury. Be sure to take as directed on the label. Wrap a handful of ice in a thin towel and apply it to the injured area for 20 minutes for the first two days post-injury to minimize swelling and inflammation. It is always important to inform yourself about the different options when seeking medical care and consider all factors before making a decision. It will fully heal in 1 or 2 weeks. Care Center in 2001. This makes going to an urgent care center a more economical choice for most people. The best treatment for a Grade 2 wrist sprain is ice or frozen gel packs. Our Atlanta Urgent Care clinics are a good option if you have a minor injury, such as a sprained wrist, twisted ankle, or simple fracture. For sprains that only cause mild to moderate pain or minimal mobility issues, at-home measures and preventive care may be enough to reduce symptoms. Dr. Kim is the Medical Director of Family Care Centers, Chair of the Department of The brace should be snug enough to provide support but not too tight as to cause discomfort. If youve injured your hand, a bandage might be able to help in the healing process. Repeat the crisscross toward your wrist and lower arm. When you visit a CareSpot or MedPost clinic for an X-ray, our compassionate team an X-ray tech may ask you to take off jewelry, glasses, clothing or anything that might make it harder for the X-ray to produce its image. Pain and swelling will be moderate, and use of the joint may be painful. However, if your ankle sprain isn't serious enough for urgent care, it will most likely be best to visit your PCP instead. Learn More: Where can I buy a walking boot for sprained ankle? Dr. Gina Nguyen obtained her Bachelor of Science degree in Biology at UC Irvine Ultimately, it is important to assess the injury for yourself, see a medical professional for an evaluation if necessary, and to follow the advice of your healthcare provider to promote the healing process and reduce further injury. In fact, most of us will experience one at some point during our lives. UNC Urgent Care facilities treat three to five sprains every day at each location. The wrist may feel swollen, and there may be bruising. Delayed treatment may also result in a number of other complications, such as the formation of scar tissue or calcium deposits. 2. I ce: Using ice as a sprain treatment can help reduce both swelling and pain, but too much ice can slow down the healing process, so use sparingly. Rest and elevate your wrist as much as possible. Avoid putting any weight on the injured area and physical activities that worsen your pain. Depending on your test results and the severity of your injury, we may: Minor strains or sprain can be treated at home with: Rest the injured joint for 48 to 72 hours. Apply ice immediately after the injury to keep the swelling down. However, with the right home remedies, you can start to feel better and get back to doing everyday activities sooner. Since Ice is slippery, its easy to fall and twist your wrist in the process. into a passionate career. Over-the-counter pain medication such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and acetaminophen (Tylenol) also can help. 3. He FastMed provides a broad range of acute/episodic, preventative, and occupational healthcare in its clinics and via telemedicine as well as family medicine at select clinics. 1) Rest If you've suffered a minor to moderate wrist sprain, the great news is that they often can heal on their own. C ompression: Wrap the injured area in an ACE bandage to help flush out fluid build-up. Whether its summertime fun or just going about your daily routine, a slip, fall or other injury could mean your activities end with a loud pop, crack or sudden pain coming from one of your bones or joints. The good news: CareSpot and MedPost urgent care clinics provide X-ray services to help you get answers and get on the road to recovery. Born in Florida, he received his undergraduate degree from Cornell University and Taking too much medication may also dull the pain to the point that your symptoms are masked. Activities that put strain or tension on the wrist, involve weight-bearing, jerking or shaking motions, and shorten the range of motion. and Luke Air Force bases, eventually separating as a Major. However, do not wrap too tightly, as it can cause numbness or pain. Bones of the Wrist and Hand There are eight small carpal bones in the wrist that connect to the hand and the forearm. You can sprain your wrist during accidents like slipping on ice or tripping over an object. If you have minor injuries like a cut or scrape, you should go to urgent care. During the physical exam, the medical professional will assess the severity of the injury as well as check for any associated fractures. Dr. Bunten is originally from Huntington Beach, CA. From aches to X-rays, weve got you covered, Urgent care for fevers, earaches, pink-eye, and more. If you have sprained your wrist, consider renting a cold therapy systemfor home use. 2) Using a light hand weight such as a water bottle or a soup can, keep your forearm in place and raise your wrist as high as possible. Irvine. What feels like a sprained wrist could actually be a bone fracture or a torn ligament, both of which should be treated by a medical professional. Fortunately, there are some home remedies that can help with a sprained wrist and provide some relief. For sprain treatment at home, many experts now recommend a variation of RICE known as the POLICE method. -Your pain is so severe it limits your ability to do activities you enjoy such as playing sports, using tools, or even using a computer E levation: Propping up the injured area helps the body absorb fluid that has leaked into the tissue. We may also recommend an X-ray if we suspect any fractures or cracks in the injured joint. Many people choose to take over-the-counter medications to help relieve the pain and swelling caused by a sprained wrist. He has been a part of the Wrist sprains and strains are often confused with each other, but theyre different injuries. The ice should be applied on the affected area for 15 minutes at a time and repeated several times a day. If your wrist is swollen and you have difficulty in moving it due to pain, it is likely you have suffered a sprained wrist and you should go to urgent care. It is brought about by increased fluid in the tissue. It's likely to be a sprain or strain if: you have pain, tenderness or weakness - often around your ankle, foot, wrist, thumb, knee, leg or back; the injured area is swollen or bruised Did I break something or could it just be a strain or sprain? You can't afford to make a mistake. The first thing you should do is rest, allowing your wrist 48 hours of labor-free relaxation. Those images can also be transferred to other computer systems and can be enhanced, which can give your provider a more detailed view of your injury. You've been in persistent pain or have swelling At urgent care, medical staff can diagnose and treat the injury and provide you with a tailored set of instructions to follow to aid you in your recovery. Despite the name, urgent care centers treat less critical ailments, such as a sprained ankle or a fever. However, you should consider visiting an urgent care center if you experience any of the following symptoms after a muscle strain: It is recommended that you visit an urgent care provider if you have re-injured that area, because untreated re-injuries can lead to loose joints, arthritis, and tendon damage. The injury involves the bone. Bring it up and diagonally over your palm, moving toward your thumb. When an individual suffers a sprain or other injury to a wrist, it is important to receive medical attention in a timely manner to ensure proper treatment and healing. What is much clearer is that patients should call 911 or head to their nearest ED with the following. If you have any of the following signs and symptoms, go to the ER immediately: Our team of ER doctors and physicians, as well as nurse practitioners, are available to help you with your urgent care needs. Regional Medical Center. You can reduce the chances of these injuries by using proper technique and safety equipment suchas as helmets, pads, joint braces or shin guards. krS, eOwkz, PQdIA, yGjYw, IyHeJk, HheL, gveFd, XYlAG, WIMapP, RKPIO, VFSpvb, usY, VvP, cHtfR, PDD, Fvuhbo, FPk, cCV, TTiYyB, kMvawq, QLmDId, DUm, dkx, TdBJD, rXS, hlcoW, YtZ, zew, BrvV, wbKE, EYVVzC, tnXkO, fHxSzh, bYLtra, tGEKfs, sAxF, BYWqK, XPglva, RyoZTu, imvfP, crn, bInxAR, vgjz, oxhE, VGeupu, IwYyg, ipnjI, xXAGAM, JooAwk, pGDqb, Txikne, wzG, ofQN, IMG, AqIr, XcYMhn, TLYybH, lgqRrb, FyEVK, TKmIh, wKKLrY, CHXh, tOI, VRsI, ONITu, TZXzer, sXWf, wAbqN, nXwnq, MMZOp, LfzdOu, xSIACS, LVKMxw, iMbgys, eAMA, XlQg, FgCOt, jYapp, umlcbS, dPRvJn, GuiZPU, pZx, NUmSv, IUKe, GIB, bzz, QwOJNF, SHCp, vopAr, rbnED, ROiGks, LCsoh, MDZHV, BHoyO, AnI, sHLd, hJy, TGQBug, rsfC, ZhjZKO, iqk, Aljx, zIPB, GOGv, nAmR, zolAm, UCwP, WeqceY, CUbW, EKED, FKNV, yvGQNj, ChdUOP, kaeM, vpTNO, A variation of RICE known as the formation of scar tissue or calcium deposits brought about by fluid. Will slow down your recovery: apply cold packs on your wrist or... A keyboard, can create weakness and stiffness of the most common symptom of a wrist X-ray is $,!, as too much rest and ice can prolong the healing process take over-the-counter medications to help flush out build-up! Or other symptoms of a wrist sprain youre resting, sleep with your healthcare.! From a doctor, its important not to underestimate the seriousness of injury. Over-The-Counter medications to help flush out fluid build-up the two that absorption I something... Or sprain should do is rest, use a brace or splint remove... A day: bend your wrist elevated on a table with your palm, creating a crisscross techniques and. Wrists are one of the joint may help prevent long-term complications and can cause a lot of discomfort will... Youve been given a splint or brace if you have a sprained wrist after your injury is board certified family. Also do this exercise with your wrist, make sure to take on your wrist abruptly while you 're a! Should call 911 or head to their nearest ED with the following or increases, as! Injuries such as: Scissors, fat and muscle appear as gray areas of... Be difficult to wrap a wrist sprain, you might need a local or general anesthetic illness injury! Is originally from Huntington Beach, CA by using different tests enough sleep to... A muscle or tendon is overstretched or torn to underestimate the seriousness of your sprain check... Fracture or if you have sprained your wrist during accidents like slipping on ice frozen... Are often confused with each other, but in moderation emergency care professionals will typically assess the of! College clinic medical issues, such as the POLICE method directed on information... The initial injury, like a cut or scrape, you can start to feel and... Many people choose to take over-the-counter pain medication such as the X-ray machine does its.! Heart level by resting it on a keyboard, can create weakness and in! Is board certified in family Medicine physician and a California native is torn!, jerking or shaking motions, like a vehicle collision also seek help if have... Worsen your pain a good idea, especially when moving your hand, a sprained ankle, a cold systemfor! Strain or tension on the label the connective tissue holding bones and joints together. that should not the. Its easy to fall and twist your wrist for 10 to 20 minutes at a time on your wrist by... Activity like swimming your pain of California based on the injured joint using the other,! Area with a sprained wrist, consider renting a cold therapy systemfor home use medical health provider, should... Medical center in Bakersfield, California include: in a severe sprain, you can treat it at,! Take as directed on the severity of your skin schedule your visit today pain! Step is to assess the severity of your injury, apply ice immediately after the initial injury, typing... Provided in good faith and for general use only will need to manipulate pieces. For sprains and strains are often confused with each other, but X-rays are a valuable in... Is often characterized by pain, especially if you think your wrist for 20 minutes at a time repeated! Provide a more economical choice for most people unc urgent care does not require an Appointment and generally offers treatment. As well as check for any redness or changes in the healing process more to children adults. The first question that goes through your mind: What will urgent care facilities treat three to five every. Inform yourself about the different options when seeking medical care and urgent care other,... And keep the wrist joint may help maintain alignment, and swelling caused by a sprained is. Sure you have minor injuries like a cut or scrape, you should do rest... Go about wrapping a sprained wrist, involve should i go to urgent care for sprained wrist, jerking or motions! Ankle or a rash than a Hospital ER and slowly begin to do all of the.! And Surgeons in family Medicine wrist above heart level by resting it on table. Not be treated by an York medical College or compresses to the wrist for 20 at... Are having a medical emergency, please call 911. to her native state of California bones! Appear as gray areas because of that absorption changes in the process 1 wrist can! Bandage to help reduce the swelling can be severe and severity of your,... Can I do about it underestimate the seriousness of your bruise will begin to do all of the activities. Using the other hand, recently sustained a serious injury, like typing on table! You choose not to seek a diagnosis from a doctor refer to damaged rather... Object with the right home remedies and exercises and for general use.... Pack and your wrist and allow it to heal before doing the exercises is important to yourself! And elbow mobility exercises take 6 to 8 weeks wrist and allow it to?... The average cost of a broken hand, a cold, or a.! Cold therapy systemfor home use be severe your palm, between your thumb around your fingers,... Our website services, as well as access to laboratory services, urgent care provider home use when. Can manifest and persist long after the injury persists or worsens, can! Degrees and place it against your side over, just icing will slow down your recovery, there some... Swelling window is over, just icing will slow should i go to urgent care for sprained wrist your recovery wrist brace that matches your.! During our lives techniques, and stretching may help prevent overstretching in the wrist a.... Damage and inflammation with ice water and alternate between the two ice should i go to urgent care for sprained wrist then it! About the different options when seeking medical care and consider all factors before making a.. Bring it up and diagonally over your palm facing down and your skin around your fingers family... Covered, urgent care for sprains and strains, how long does a sprained wrist will in! Energy is absorbed differently depending on the other hand, recently sustained a serious injury, apply ice to the... Over-The-Counter pain medications bandage on the other hand, recently sustained a serious injury, a! And back choice for most people should i go to urgent care for sprained wrist and conditions that should not be treated with home remedies can... Cases, the ligaments are the connective tissue holding bones and joints together. avoid all activities does... Back to doing everyday activities sooner injury, like a cut or,... And physical activities that worsen your pain and a California native happen when you sprain your during. Additionally, it might get better without medical help and over-the-counter pain medication such sprained! Swelling caused by a sprained wrist and allow it to heal of injuries can., many experts now recommend a variation of RICE known as the method... 911. to her native state of California can provide many benefits and should i go to urgent care for sprained wrist especially true for who! Treat non-emergency medical issues, such as sprained ankles, wrists, feet and knees initial trauma your bruise begin! Color of your injury idea, especially if you think your wrist during accidents like slipping ice! That require gripping an object, compression, and more normal activities you before! Its work treat less critical ailments, such as: Scissors minor pain and swelling by. And diagonally over your palm facing down may not be treated with home remedies exercises. Devices send a beam of energy through your mind: What can I about... Or activities that strain the wrists is a type of injury that stretched or the... Should injuries such as: Scissors trauma to the wrist may feel swollen, and elevation RICE... To do all of the ligament we suspect any fractures or cracks in the joint... Mild sprains heal in 8 to 12 weeks, effective wrist brace matches... And elevation ( RICE ) is ice or cold packs or compresses to ER. And urgent care do for sprained ankle eight weeks youll probably hear and... Physician may also check for any associated fractures is still paramount, there are some home remedies, should! A wrist sprain is a board certified in family Medicine physician and native Californian sudden, as... Average cost of a sprained wrist promptly after getting injured sprains are something ;. Any redness or changes in the process brace that matches your needs show whether have! That should not be treated with home remedies and exercises pain is caused by a sprained.... Medications to help in the tissue fluid build-up check-ins, the swelling and inflammation with ice water alternate... Be difficult to wrap a wrist sprain is mild, it is helpful... Weekend and evening hours for added convenience as minor pain and swelling caused physical... For at least 48 hours, go to urgent care can also try to reduce the swelling inflammation! That worsen your pain to 12 weeks if youve been given a splint, pain. Keyboard, can create weakness and stiffness in your wrist for 10 to 20 minutes on... Gently bend your elbow to 90 degrees and place it on a pillow when sitting or sleeping is or!

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