Wise Ways to Welcome Spring: Handling Outdoor Injuries
Monday, May 20th, 2019, 9:49 amSpring has sprung, and with the warmer weather comes spending more time outdoors. You may be outdoors playing with the kids, gardening, doing some yard work, or working on home improvement projects. Whatever you are doing outside in this beautiful weather always has the potential for injury. While most injuries from outdoor activities are minor, there are times when you need to see a doctor.
Breaks
If you suspect that you have broken a bone, you should see a doctor right away. Avoid putting pressure or weight on the affected limb until you have seen a doctor so that you do not inadvertently make the injury worse. Most broken bones can be diagnosed and set in urgent care or your doctor’s office without need to go to a hospital.
Sprains
Some sprains are easily managed at home. You can treat a sprained ankle or wrist with ice packs, anti-inflammatory over the counter medication, and a brace or sling. However, if swelling does not lessen with the application of ice and rest, you may need to visit a doctor. Try to avoid using the affected limb until you see a doctor for proper diagnosis. It could be possible that you have broken a bone or torn a tendon.
Cuts and Scrapes
Most cuts and scrapes can be treated at home. If the wound is a gash and does not seem to be closing on its own, you may need to see a doctor to get stitches. You will also want to see a doctor if the wound shows no sign of healing after a few days, or if you see signs of infection such as redness and swelling.
If you have outdoor injuries during these spring and summer months, there is no need to visit a hospital or wait for your doctor’s office to fit you in. Our urgent care is ready and able to deal with these and other outdoor injuries. Contact us today for more information.
Category: Injuries