According to the United States’ Healthy People Project 2030, over 50% of children ages 6 to 17 played organized sports or took sports lessons in 2021. With over half of the country’s children actively participating in sports, there’s no shortage of sports-related injuries.
Youth sports are an excellent way for kids and teenagers to stay active, build teamwork skills, and enjoy the thrill of competition. However, sports can sometimes lead to injuries.
Knowing how to access prompt and appropriate care is crucial when those inevitable bumps, sprains, and fractures occur.
In this blog post, we’ll explore common youth sports injuries, whether you can visit urgent care for a sports injury, and if urgent care can treat fractures.
Continue reading to learn more.
Common Youth Sports Injuries
Youth sports injuries come in various forms, and while they can be painful and concerning, many are treatable with the right medical attention at an urgent care facility.
The most common youth sports injuries that we treat include
- Sprains and Strains
These injuries involve stretching or tearing of ligaments (sprains) or muscles and tendons (strains). Ankle and wrist sprains are the most common. - Contusions (Bruises)
Bruising occurs when small blood vessels under the skin break, resulting in discoloration and pain. - Fractures
While less common, broken bones can happen during high-impact sports or falls. - Concussions
Head injuries, including concussions, can occur in contact sports and require immediate evaluation and management. - Overuse Injuries
Repetitive motions in sports like baseball or swimming can lead to overuse injuries, such as tendonitis or stress fractures. - Dislocations
The force of impact can cause joints to become dislocated, typically requiring reduction by a medical professional.
Can I Visit Urgent Care for a Sports Injury?
Yes, most urgent care facilities are well-equipped to assess and treat a wide range of sports injuries. Consider visiting Thibodaux Regional Urgent Care for prompt and effective care when you or your child sustains a sports-related injury.
Can Urgent Care Treat Fractures?
Yes, urgent care centers, including Thibodaux Regional Urgent Care, can treat many types of fractures, including simple fractures that don’t require surgical intervention.
Here’s what you can expect when seeking urgent care for a fracture
- X-Ray Evaluation
The urgent care team will typically perform X-rays to diagnose the type and extent of the fracture. - Stabilization
Depending on the fracture’s location and severity, we may stabilize the affected area with a cast, splint, or brace. - Pain Management
Pain relief measures, such as pain medications or anti-inflammatory drugs, may be prescribed.
- Specialist Referrals
Urgent care providers will refer patients to orthopedic specialists for further evaluation and long-term treatment planning for complex fractures or those requiring surgery.
Sports Injury Urgent Care: Prompt Treatment for Athletes in Thibodaux
In Thibodaux, athletes and parents can find peace of mind knowing that our urgent care center is open seven days a week to provide prompt and effective treatment for youth sports injuries.
Whether it’s a sprained ankle, a fractured bone, or any other sports-related concern, our experienced urgent care orthopedic team is here to help.
If you or a loved one have experienced a sports-related injury, don’t delay care. Visit us today for prompt diagnosis and treatment to start feeling better sooner.