Acute Injuries
Acute injuries, typically within 48-72 hours of impact or trauma, often involve specific body areas.
Acute injuries are those that have occurred recently, usually defined as having occurred in the previous 48-72 hours. Acute injuries are also usually the result of a specific impact or traumatic event that occurs in one specific area of the body.
Examples of acute injuries
- Tendon strains
- Ligament sprains
- Muscle strains
- Muscle contusions
- Fractures
Most acute injuries heal better when treated within the first few days of being injured.
Deciding if an injury requires medical attention may not be easy, Some signs that should prompt a visit to OrthoNOW include:
- Moderate or severe amount of swelling
- Rapid swelling
- Inability to move the joint in a full range of motion
- Inability to walk
- Extreme pain
- Pain at rest
- Limb appears deformed
Even without any of these signs, if an injury does not significantly improve after resting it for a couple of days, or if you feel at all uncertain, consider getting it checked out.
Early assessment and treatment of acute injuries is essential to a full recovery and safe return to everyday activities.
Acute Injuries FAQ's
Find answers to some of our most asked questions below
What should I do immediately after sustaining an acute injury?
- Answer: The R.I.C.E. method is recommended – Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation. Avoid using the injured area and apply ice, compression, and elevation to reduce swelling.
When should I seek medical attention for an acute injury?
- Answer: If the injury is severe, involves a broken bone, or if you’re unable to bear weight or perform normal activities, seek medical attention immediately. Also, persistent pain or swelling should be evaluated.
- Answer: No, minor injuries can often be addressed at urgent care or with primary care physicians. However, if there’s severe pain, deformity, or signs of a more serious issue, the ER may be necessary.
- Answer: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen, rest, ice, compression, and elevation can help manage pain and swelling. Follow the R.I.C.E. method.
- Answer: Recovery time varies based on the type and severity of the injury. Follow your healthcare provider’s guidance. Returning to activities too soon can worsen the injury.
- Answer: Yes, warning signs include intense pain, inability to move the injured part, numbness or tingling, visible deformity, or if the injury was caused by a high-impact incident. Seek prompt medical attention for such signs.
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