What is an acute injury?
What are some common types of acute injury?
There are many different types of acute injury, but some of the most common include:
- Ligament sprains
- Muscle strains
- Tendon strains
- Fractures
- Burns
- Cuts and lacerations
If you experience an acute injury, you’ll likely experience symptoms immediately. For example, pain, swelling, bruising, bleeding, difficulty bearing weight, and using the affected part of your body.
How is an acute injury diagnosed?
Acute injury diagnosis starts with an exam and a discussion of the circumstances surrounding your injury. North Star Clinic has experts in emergency medicine and orthopedics — the two medical fields most focused on acute injuries. This makes them uniquely qualified to assess your injury quickly and accurately.
In addition to a comprehensive exam of your injury, you may need imaging tests, like an X-ray, diagnostic ultrasound, computed tomography (CT scan), or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
How are acute injuries treated?
Your injury treatment depends on the specific injury and your symptoms. Some of the most common medical approaches for acute injuries include:
- Anti-inflammatory medication
- Rest
- Temporary activity modifications
- Ice packs
- Elevation (above the heart level) of the injured body part
- Wound cleaning
- Wound dressing and bandaging
- Stitches or sutures
- Compression with an elastic bandage
- Brace, splint, or cast
- Mobility aid, such as crutches or a walker
- Physical therapy
Most people use a combination of treatments to encourage healing after an acute injury. For example, your recovery plan may include bracing, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory medication along with rest, elevation, and ice packs at home. You’ll receive a customized treatment plan that’s focused on a fast and safe return to your normal routine.
North Star Clinic can manage all your urgent care needs for acute injuries. But, if you have a life-threatening injury, proceed to the emergency room at the nearest hospital immediately.
If you have an acute injury and need expert care from an urgent care and orthopedics specialist, call North Star Clinic or click the online scheduling link now.
