When to Visit an Orthopedic Clinic Instead of an Emergency Room

Every athlete, amateur or professional, and weekend warriors face the reality of dealing with injuries. When pain strikes, the immediate question is, “Where should I go for treatment?” For active individuals, proper treatment is critical, as it can affect mobility and performance. Therefore, it is important to know where to go after sustaining an injury. However, the information here is not just for acute conditions but also chronic ones. Depending on the situation, one is more appropriate than the other. This article helps you determine whether to visit an orthopedic clinic or go directly to the emergency room (ER) for the best care.

What Does an Orthopedic Clinic Do?

Orthopedic clinics are facilities that diagnose and treat musculoskeletal issues involving bones, joints, ligaments, and muscles. Common injuries treated here are sprains and strains, minor fractures, and ligament tears.

If you are dealing with ongoing pain, swelling, or reduced mobility, it is time to visit an “orthopedic clinic near me.” These symptoms can indicate underlying problems that need expert attention.

An orthopedic clinic in Little Rock, AR, offers a range of services to support recovery, including:

• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): A non-invasive imaging technique that provides detailed images of bones and soft tissues, helping orthopedic doctors accurately diagnose conditions.
• Ultrasound-Guided Injections: These injections utilize real-time imaging to deliver medications directly into the affected area, ensuring precise treatment. Orthopedic doctors may use this to deliver cortisone, which helps lower inflammation.
• Physical Therapy: Physical therapy is a personalized program of exercises and treatments. Physical therapists use various techniques, such as manual therapy and modalities like heat or electrical stimulation, to manage pain and promote healing.
• PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) Therapy: PRP therapy involves extracting a patient’s blood, processing it to concentrate the platelets, and injecting it to promote healing. The growth factors in platelets stimulate tissue regeneration and help reduce pain and inflammation.

The range of services you can get at a Little Rock orthopedic clinic helps with a successful outcome.

When to Visit an Orthopedic Clinic in Little Rock, AR

Deciding between an orthopedic doctor near me and an emergency room (ER) can impact your care and recovery. Here is when to choose each option, along with signs, symptoms, and types of injuries to consider.

Visit the Emergency Room in Little Rock, AR, If:

• You experience severe pain: Intense pain that feels unmanageable may require immediate attention.
• You are bleeding: Injuries that are bleeding heavily need immediate treatment available at an emergency room.
• You have visible deformities: If a limb or joint looks out of place, it may indicate a serious injury, such as a fracture or dislocation.
• You notice swelling or bruising: Sudden, significant swelling or bruising after an injury may require urgent assessment to rule out serious damage.
• You have signs of infection: Symptoms like fever, redness, or warmth around a joint could indicate an infection that needs immediate treatment.
• You experience sudden instability: If a joint feels unstable or gives way suddenly, it may suggest a ligament injury that requires immediate care.
• You have a head injury: Head injuries should never be taken lightly. If you sustain a blow to the head during sports and experience symptoms like dizziness, confusion, or loss of consciousness, it is crucial to seek emergency care immediately.

Visit an Orthopedic Clinic in Little Rock, AR, If:

• You have persistent pain: If you experience ongoing pain in your joints, muscles, or bones that do not improve with rest or over-the-counter medication.
• You have limited mobility: Difficulty moving a joint or limb, especially after an injury, is a sign that specialized care may be needed.
• You suspect a sprain or strain: These common injuries may not require immediate emergency care but still need evaluation and treatment from an orthopedic specialist.
• You have chronic conditions: Conditions like arthritis or tendonitis can be better managed with the ongoing care and expertise provided at an orthopedic clinic.
• You need follow-up care: After an initial injury or surgery, a visit to the orthopedic clinic can help you stay on track with your recovery plan.

By recognizing the signs requiring specialized care and knowing the benefits of orthopedic clinics, you can make informed decisions about your healthcare. Accessing the right care at the right time is a step in the right direction.

Orthopedic Clinic Near Me in Little Rock, AR

If you are suffering from orthopedic conditions, consult Dr. William F. Hefley. Dr. Hefley is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon providing high-quality treatments to patients since 1990. Dr. Hefley regularly treats athletes, active individuals, and seniors with chronic conditions such as arthritis.

In our Little Rock orthopedic clinic, we make available everything you need to have a successful recovery. From diagnostics to physical therapy and rehabilitation, you need not go anywhere else!

For more information or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Hefley, call our orthopedic clinic in Little Rock, AR, today at (800) 336-2412 or use our convenient appointment request form. Our friendly team is eager to serve you!