Injuries happen when we least expect them—whether you’re playing sports, working out, or simply going about your day-to-day activities. Sometimes, these injuries can be mild and manageable, while other times they require immediate attention from a healthcare professional. That’s when orthopedic urgent care comes in.
But how do you know when it’s time to visit an orthopedic urgent care facility rather than a general urgent care or your primary care physician? Understanding the types of injuries orthopedic urgent care clinics treat and knowing when to seek specialized care can make all the difference in your recovery. Here’s what you need to know.
What is Orthopedic Urgent Care?
Orthopedic urgent care is a specialized clinic designed to treat musculoskeletal injuries and conditions. These facilities are equipped to handle injuries related to bones, joints, muscles, tendons, ligaments, and nerves. They offer quick, focused care for a wide range of issues, from sports injuries to fractures and strains. At Raleigh Orthopaedic Urgent Care, you’ll be seen by physician assistants and nurse practitioners who are trained to handle a wide variety of serious, but non-life-threatening orthopedic injuries and can provide the right treatment right away—often without the long waits at emergency rooms.
When Should You Visit Orthopedic Urgent Care?
Here are some common signs that it’s time to visit an orthopedic urgent care clinic:
- Sudden, Severe Pain or Swelling
- If you’ve experienced a sudden injury like a fall or accident and are dealing with severe pain, swelling, or bruising in your joints, bones, or muscles, it’s a good idea to visit orthopedic urgent care. These symptoms can indicate a sprain, strain, or fracture that needs immediate attention.
- Suspected Fractures or Broken Bones
- If you think you’ve broken a bone, it’s important to get it checked out quickly. Orthopedic urgent care clinics are equipped to assess fractures and provide immediate treatment, such as splinting or casting, to prevent further damage.
- Sprains and Strains
- Twisted ankles, pulled muscles, or overstretched ligaments can cause sprains and strains, which may need specialized care to reduce pain, inflammation, and promote healing. An orthopedic urgent care facility can evaluate the injury and guide you through the recovery process.
- Joint Pain or Dislocations
- Joint injuries, including dislocations or subluxations (partial dislocations), can be incredibly painful and require expert care. If you experience a joint popping out of place, it’s essential to seek immediate care at an orthopedic urgent care clinic to have it properly repositioned and treated.
- Tendon or Ligament Injuries
- Injuries to the tendons or ligaments, such as a torn ACL or Achilles tendon, can be debilitating and require timely care. Orthopedic specialists can assess the injury and recommend a treatment plan that may include bracing, physical therapy, or further medical intervention.
- Sports Injuries
- Athletes of all levels are prone to injuries like strains, sprains, ligament tears, and fractures. If you’ve been injured during a game or workout, orthopedic urgent care clinics specialize in sports-related injuries and can help get you back on track quickly.
- Chronic Pain Flare-ups
- If you’re dealing with chronic conditions like arthritis, tendonitis, or overuse injuries, and you experience a sudden increase in pain or mobility issues, it might be time to seek orthopedic urgent care. These clinics can help manage flare-ups and provide treatment to alleviate symptoms.
Why Choose Orthopedic Urgent Care?
- Specialized Care:
- At Raleigh Orthopaedic, we specialize in the treatment of muscle, bone and joint injuries. Our specialists will examine and assess your injury, order the appropriate diagnostic tests and imaging and consult with one of our orthopaedic physicians when necessary.
- Shorter Wait Times:
- Unlike traditional emergency room visits, you will receive a prompt evaluation and treatment, minimizing wait times and ensuring you receive care in a timely manner.
- Less Expensive:
- A visit to the Emergency room can cost thousands of dollars, but at Raleigh Orthopaedic’s Urgent Care clinic, you will pay the same rate as a regular specialty doctor’s appointment.
- On-Site Imaging:
- With on-site imaging, we provide you with instant, accurate diagnostics, allowing you to receive targeted treatment and begin your recovery without the delays of referral or additional appointments.
- No Referral or Appointment Necessary:
- If you suffer an orthopedic injury, Raleigh Orthopaedic Urgent Care offers walk-in clinics at all four of our locations. You do not need an appointment or a referral. Just walk in!
- Convenience:
- We offer Urgent Care services at four different locations. Our Garner and Holly Springs Urgent Care clinics are open weekdays 8AM – 4PM. However, our Raleigh and Wakefield urgent care centers are open seven days a week from 8AM – 8PM,  providing convenient access when you need it most.  Whether it’s an evening injury or weekend discomfort, help is just around the corner.
Conclusion
If you’re dealing with an injury that involves your muscles, bones, joints, tendons, or ligaments, orthopedic urgent care is often your best option for prompt, specialized treatment. Whether you’re experiencing a sudden injury, a sports-related mishap, or chronic pain flare-ups, Raleigh Orthopaedic Urgent Care is here to ensure you receive the right treatment quickly, helping to prevent further damage and speed up your recovery.
To provide you with timely care, our Raleigh Orthopaedic Urgent Care centers offer a convenient, comfortable, and familiar environment for treatment. Our Raleigh and Wakefield Urgent Care clinics are open seven days a week, from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Our Garner and Holly Springs Urgent Care locations are open weekdays from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
If you’re unsure whether your injury warrants an orthopedic urgent care visit, don’t hesitate to contact one of our clinics or consult with a healthcare provider. Your health and recovery are our top priorities, and we’re here to help you every step of the way.
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Are you looking for expert orthopedic care in Wake County, NC? Visit one of our six clinics in Cary, Garner, Holly Springs, Raleigh, Wakefield, or West Cary- Panther Creek. We’re ready to help you get back to feeling your best!