An Urgent Care Providing Broken Bone Treatment in Norwich, CT
If you need treatment for a minor fracture, you don’t have to trek to an emergency room, wait around for hours, and needlessly pay a costly hospital bill. Instead, simply walk into PhysicianOne Urgent Care for timely medical treatment. Our physician-founded urgent care center in Norwich, Connecticut, is open 365 days per year with extended hours and welcomes walk-in patients. Our experienced medical practitioners treat non-life-threatening health concerns—including minor broken bones—in patients of all ages.
Common Causes of Minor Fractures
Minor bone fractures can occur due to various causes and from certain activities. One common cause of bone fractures is sports-related injuries, particularly high-impact sports or activities that involve repetitive stress on the bones, such as running or jumping. Accidental falls, especially from heights or on hard surfaces, can also lead to bone fractures.
Additionally, certain conditions like osteoporosis, which is more common in older adults and weakens the bones, can increase the risk of fractures even with minimal trauma. It's important to seek timely medical attention for minor bone fractures to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment, preventing further complications and promoting a smooth recovery.
What Are the Signs of a Broken Bone?
It can be difficult to know for sure if you have a minor broken bone or another injury without a clinical diagnosis. That’s why it’s always a good idea to seek treatment if signs of a minor fracture develop, which may include:
- Sudden pain as the injury occurred
- Bruising, tenderness, swelling, and redness around the affected area
- Trouble moving or placing weight on an affected limb
Broken bones can often be treated in an urgent care setting, but more severe fractures should be evaluated in an emergency room. Call 911 or go to the nearest ER if a broken bone:
- Breaks through the skin or causes a noticeable deformity
- Causes trouble breathing, heavy bleeding, or loss of consciousness
- Occurs in the head, neck, or back
Treatment Options for Broken Bones
When it comes to treating broken bones, there are several effective options available. The best treatment approach depends on the severity and location of the fracture. Here are some common treatment options:
Immobilization
One primary method of treating broken bones is immobilization. This involves stabilizing and protecting the fracture site to promote optimal healing. Various techniques can be used, including splints, casts, braces, and slings. Splints are often used for initial stabilization immediately after the injury happens, providing support and preventing further damage. Casts, made of materials like fiberglass or plaster, are custom-fitted to the specific fracture and provide long-term immobilization. Braces and slings may be utilized to support and restrict movement in specific areas, depending on the type of fracture. Proper immobilization is essential for ensuring the bones heal correctly and reducing the risk of complications.
Pain Management
Pain management plays a crucial role in the treatment of broken bones. Pain medications, both over-the-counter and prescription, can be used to manage pain effectively. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly recommended for mild to moderate pain relief. For more severe pain, stronger prescription medications may be necessary.
In addition to medication, non-pharmacological methods can also help manage pain. These include applying ice packs to the affected area to reduce swelling and inflammation, elevating the injured limb (if applicable) to minimize swelling, and getting plenty of rest to allow the body to heal.
Rehabilitation & Recovery
After the initial treatment and immobilization phase, rehabilitation and recovery are crucial for regaining strength, flexibility, and range of motion in the affected area. Physical therapy plays a significant role in the rehabilitation process. A skilled physical therapist may design a personalized exercise program that focuses on strengthening the muscles surrounding the fracture, improving joint mobility, and restoring overall function. These exercises may include stretching, resistance training, and specialized movements targeting the injured area.
It is vital to follow the post-fracture rehabilitation guidelines provided by your healthcare professional to ensure a successful recovery and minimize the risk of complications. Active participation in rehabilitation speeds up the healing process, facilitates a quicker return to normal activities, and reduces the likelihood of long-term issues related to the fracture.
We’ve Got You
In non-emergency scenarios, PhysicianOne Urgent Care is a convenient and affordable place to turn for minor fracture treatment. Come see us in Norwich today—our knowledgeable team can provide onsite X-ray imaging and accelerated care for broken bones and other common injuries. Please contact us in advance to ensure same-day X-ray availability. We also offer 24/7 virtual visits and accept most major insurance plans. If you aren't insured, you can take advantage of our reasonable self-pay rates.
