When you’re dealing with a sudden injury or severe pain, waiting for care isn’t an option. Whether it’s a sprained ankle from a weekend soccer game or a sharp pain in your shoulder that won’t go away, you need help fast. That’s where urgent orthopedic care comes in.In this blog post, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about getting urgent orthopedic care in Lancaster. We’ll cover what counts as an orthopedic emergency, where to go, and why Lancaster Orthopedic Group should be your first choice. Let’s dive in!
What Counts as an Orthopedic Emergency?
Orthopedic injuries involve bones, joints, muscles, ligaments, and tendons. Some injuries are minor and can wait a day or two for treatment. Others are more serious and need immediate attention. Here are some examples of situations where you should get urgent orthopedic care:
Broken Bones (Fractures): If you’ve had a fall, car accident, or sports injury and suspect a broken bone, don’t wait. A fracture needs proper care to heal correctly.
Severe Sprains or Strains: A sprained ankle or pulled muscle might not seem like a big deal, but if the pain is intense or you can’t put weight on it, it’s time to see a specialist.
Dislocated Joints: If a joint like your shoulder, knee, or finger pops out of place, it can be incredibly painful and needs quick treatment to avoid further damage.
Sudden, Severe Pain: If you experience sharp, unexplained pain in your back, neck, or any joint, it could be a sign of a serious issue like a herniated disc or torn ligament.
Post-Surgery Complications: If you’ve recently had orthopedic surgery and notice swelling, redness, or unusual pain, don’t ignore it. These could be signs of an infection or other complications.
Where to Go for Urgent Orthopedic Care in Lancaster
When you need urgent orthopedic care, you have a few options:
1. Lancaster Orthopedic Group’s Urgent Care Services
At Lancaster Orthopedic Group, we specialize in treating orthopedic injuries quickly and effectively. Our team of experts is trained to handle everything from fractures to sports injuries. Here’s why you should choose us:
Specialized Care: Unlike general urgent care clinics, we focus solely on orthopedic issues. This means you’ll get the right treatment from professionals who know everything about bones, joints, and muscles.
No Appointment Needed: We understand that injuries don’t happen on a schedule. That’s why we offer walk-in services for urgent cases.
Advanced Technology: We use the latest tools and techniques to diagnose and treat your injury.
Continuity of Care: If you need follow-up treatment or physical therapy, we’ll be with you every step of the way.
2. Emergency Room (ER)
For life-threatening injuries, like a severe head injury or a bone that’s broken through the skin, go straight to the ER. However, for most orthopedic issues, the ER might not be the best choice. Wait times can be long, and the staff may not specialize in orthopedic care.
3. General Urgent Care Clinics
These clinics can handle minor injuries, like small cuts or mild sprains. But for anything more serious, you’ll likely be referred to an orthopedic specialist. Why not skip the middleman and come straight to Lancaster Orthopedic Group?
Why Choose Lancaster Orthopedic Group?
Choosing the right place for urgent orthopedic care, ensures you’re with a team that specializes in orthopedic care. Dr. James A. Rochester, of Lancaster Orthopedic Group, explains, “Our urgent care is staffed by physicians and physician assistants who specialize in orthopedic injuries. They can point you towards not only immediate care but also a way for you to see one of our surgeons or other specialists.”Dr. James A. Rochester, Medical Director of Lancaster Orthopedic Group
Here’s why Lancaster Orthopedic Group stands out:
1. Expertise You Can Trust
Our team includes board-certified orthopedic surgeons, physical therapists, and sports medicine specialists. We’ve seen it all and know how to get you back on your feet.
2. Convenient Locations
With multiple locations across Lancaster, we’re never far away. Whether you’re in the city or the surrounding areas, we’re close to you.
3. Comprehensive Services
From diagnosis to treatment and recovery, we offer a full range of services all in one place. This means fewer trips to different clinics and more time focusing on your healing.
4. Patient-Centered Care
Our goal is to make you feel comfortable, informed, and confident in your care.
What to Expect During Your Visit
If you’ve never been to an orthopedic urgent care clinic before, you might be wondering what to expect. Here’s a quick rundown:
Check-In: When you arrive, our friendly staff will get you checked in quickly. Bring your ID, insurance card, and any relevant medical records.
Evaluation: A specialist will examine your injury, ask about your symptoms, and possibly order imaging tests like X-rays or MRIs.
Diagnosis: Once we understand what’s going on, we’ll explain your diagnosis in simple terms.
Treatment Plan: We’ll create a personalized plan to treat your injury. This might include a cast, splint, medication, or physical therapy.
Follow-Up: If needed, we’ll schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your progress.
Tips for Preventing Orthopedic Injuries
While we’re always here to help, preventing injuries is even better. Here are some tips to keep your bones and joints healthy:
Warm Up Before Exercise: Just like stretching a rubber band before using it, warming up prepares your muscles and joints for activity.
Wear Proper Gear: Whether you’re playing sports or working on a DIY project, protective gear can save you from injury.
Lift with Your Legs: When picking up heavy objects, use your legs instead of your back to avoid strain.
Stay Active: Regular exercise strengthens your muscles and bones, making them less prone to injury.
Listen to Your Body: If something hurts, don’t push through the pain. Rest and seek care if needed.
Don’t Wait, Get Help Today!
When it comes to orthopedic injuries, time is of the essence. The sooner you get treatment, the better your chances of a full recovery. At Lancaster Orthopedic Group, we’re here to provide the urgent care you need.If you’re in Lancaster and dealing with an orthopedic injury, don’t wait. Visit us at Lancaster Orthopedic Group or call us to learn more about our urgent care services. Your bones and joints will thank you!
Have questions as you prepare for your joint replacement surgery? Call our office
