Orthopedic Injuries in Waxahachie, TX

Orthopedic injuries in Waxahachie, TX remain the most frequent causes that bring patients to the ER. The quicker a patient seeks treatment, the more likely they will have a full and speedy recovery.

Common orthopedic conditions include sprains, strains, fractures, and sports-related injuries

Sprains and Strains

Sprains and strains are frequently confused with each other but are in fact quite different.

A sprain describes an issue with the ligaments that connect two bones. These frequently happen when the affected joint twists or turns unnaturally, leading to inflammation, pain, and other symptoms. The most common sites for this type of injury are the knee, ankle, and wrist, although technically any ligament is vulnerable to a sprain.

Whereas sprains affect ligaments connecting bones, strains involve tendons connecting muscles to bones. Most commonly, strains are the result of overexertion or too much weight placed on the muscle. Any extreme overuse of a muscle risks a strain, although the symptoms can be quite similar to a sprain.

Fractures

Fractures are another common orthopedic condition. Also known as “broken bones,” fractures occur when a bone cracks. The severity of the fracture depends on the site of the injury and the amount of force involved. In the most serious fractures, the bone is snapped completely. In less serious fractures, the break is only partial or in some cases only on the surface of the bone, also called a “hairline fracture.”

The most common scenarios that lead to fractures are falls (especially among the elderly), motor vehicle crashes, and sports injuries. The risk of fractures dramatically increases with age, especially with conditions such as osteoporosis.

Sports-Related Injuries

Sports bring with them the constant threat of orthopedic injuries in 75165. Whether it is during training or a match, athletes are putting their bodies at risk. In addition to sprains, strains, and fractures, there are also risks of muscle tears, foot problems, and collisions.

Diagnosing Orthopedic Injuries and Pains

Upon arrival at Altus Emergency Center in Waxahachie, patients will first be assessed by our professional orthopedic physicians. Based on a quick questionnaire and physical examination, a diagnosis can usually be reached. However, in many instances, an imaging procedure such as a CT scan or x-ray is necessary. Many ERs can do this on-site, and every Altus Emergency Center offers 24/7 digital x-ray and CT Scan technologies.

Treating Orthopedic Injuries and Pains

Sprains and Strains

The most common symptoms of sprains and strains are inflammation and pain. Our physicians will assess your situation and prescribe the appropriate medication to treat both. The treatment program for healing the injury follows the RICE guidelines, which stands for Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation. In cases where the strain or sprain may be more serious, physicians may suggest a soft cast or brace.

Fractures

Fractures can vary greatly, but the general treatment remains the same. The goal is to give the bone time to heal in the right way to prevent future complications. In addition to medication to control pain and inflammation, physicians will prescribe a variety of treatments depending on the injury. In less severe fractures, a splint or brace might be prescribed to make sure the injured area remains in place with the necessary support. In more severe fractures, a plaster cast will be made once the bone is set. In the most severe cases, a surgical procedure might be required using metal pins, plates, or rods to stabilize the injured bone.