How do you know if you need to go to the ER or orthopaedic urgent care for an injury? What types of orthopaedic injuries can be treated at home? Should you schedule an appointment with a orthopaedic specialist? Knowing when to seek immediate medical attention is crucial, particularly since orthopaedic injuries and conditions are so common. In fact, half of U.S. adults are affected by a musculoskeletal condition*. In this article we'll go over some useful tips about what to do if you or a loved one experiences an orthopaedic injury.

When should you go to the ER?

When faced with a serious MSK (musculoskeletal) injury, the emergency room is often the first option to consider. Injuries such as open fractures, where the bone pierces through the skin, demand immediate attention. Excessive bleeding, which may not stop with standard first aid, also warrants an ER visit. In addition, if an injury involves head trauma or causes loss of consciousness, it's critical to go directly to the ER. Severe burns affecting MSK tissues also require this level of care. Emergency rooms are equipped to handle life-threatening conditions, stabilize patients, and provide necessary referrals for follow-up orthopaedic care.

IMPORTANT NOTICE: If you are experiencing a life-threatening emergency, please dial 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. If you have had orthopaedic surgery within the last month and need assistance with a related issue, please contact your surgeon’s office directly.

When should you choose orthopaedic urgent care?

Orthopedic urgent care centers specialize in diagnosing and treating non-life-threatening MSK injuries. These facilities are ideal for:

• Fractures that do not involve open wounds (such as stress fractures).
• Sprains and strains, including ligament and muscle injuries.
• Dislocations of joints like shoulders or fingers.
• Tendon injuries such as ruptures or tears.
• Sports-related injuries like joint pain or overuse injuries for adults and children.

Orthopaedic urgent care centers often have shorter wait times and lower costs than ER visits. They also provide access to specialists and imaging tools like Digital X-ray for precise diagnoses.

When should you treat at home and follow up with a specialist?

Not all MSK issues require a trip to the ER or immediate specialist care. You can manage certain conditions at home with rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE). Seek a specialist’s evaluation if:

• Pain or swelling persists for more than a few days.
• You have difficulty using the injured area or experience limited mobility.
• Symptoms gradually worsen rather than improve.
• You suspect a chronic condition such as arthritis or tendinitis.

Scheduling an appointment with an orthopaedic specialist ensures that underlying issues are addressed and long-term treatment plans are developed.

Can you get expert orthopaedic advice over the phone?

Yes! Services like VANTASTAT provide a unique advantage by connecting you with an orthopaedic  specialist who can help assess an injury over the phone. These specialists guide you to promptly receive the appropriate level of care for the injury. Their guidance can save you time, money, and unnecessary stress. Remember to always prioritize severe symptoms by heading to the ER. For nonlife-threatening but urgent issues, orthopaedic urgent care centers offer specialized treatment options. For mild injuries, start with home treatment and consult a specialist if symptoms persist.

* Science News: One in two Americans have a musculoskeletal condition