Common Questions – Orthopedic Urgent Care

99% of musculoskeletal injuries are appropriate for visits to Orthopedic Urgent Care. However, there are certain instances when the emergency room or urgent care provides a better choice, and we want you to be educated about what those are so you can make the right decision for care. Find a location.

When to go to the Emergency Room:

• If you have a fracture with the bone visible or with an open wound over the fracture. The hospital will use heavier medications and take special precautions to avoid bone infection while they treat the injury. Most often these require surgical intervention and the emergency room provides a quick referral to a qualified surgical team or physician.
• Fractures where the bone is at a severe angle
• If there is severe pain requiring IV administration or sedation
• Deep lacerations (cuts)
• Burns

When to go to Urgent Care or a non-orthopedic specialist:

• Injuries to the eye
• Cold, flu, respiratory and stomach issues
• Medical conditions that are not related to bones, joints, muscles, and their supporting structures

If unsure feel free to come to Orthopedic Urgent Care and the specialized providers will make sure you see the right provider in the right amount of time.