Sprains & Strains Treatment in Stockton

We’re Committed to Providing Fast, Thorough Care in the San Joaquin Valley

When you twist a part of the body or it is struck with blunt force, sometimes sprains and strains can happen, and you may even sustain a fracture at the same time. These common injuries occur in athletes, people who have highly physical jobs, or even at home by accident. Symptoms may include pain, inflammation, or bruising. Mild sprains and strains are easily treatable with the “RICE” method, or “rest, ice, compression, and elevation,” which is crucial in the first few days following your injury. Your doctor can help you with diagnostic testing to determine severity of your injury should it require a cast, surgery, or pain medication.

Have you sustained a sprain or strain in Stockton, Manteca, Modesto, or Lodi? Simply walk into one of our urgent care facilities or contact us for a same-day appointment to cut back on wait time by calling (209) 224-8517 now.

What Are Sprains and How Do They Affect You?

A sprain occurs when a ligament, the tissue that holds two bones together, is over-stretched or torn, and it can be very painful and can take a significant amount of time to heal. 

Sprains are graded on a scale: 

• Mild (grade 1) can cause stiffness, swelling and minor tenderness and pain. 
• Moderate (grade 2) sprains are more painful and also cause swelling and tenderness. 

Severe (grade 3) sprains involve one or more ligaments being severely torn. These sprains can cause severe pain, swelling and bruising. Your joint may even feel wobbly after suffering this injury.

Symptoms of Minor Sprains and Strains

Recognizing the symptoms of a minor sprain or strain is the first step towards seeking appropriate treatment. Common signs include:

• Pain: Localized pain around the injured area, which may worsen with movement.
• Swelling: Inflammation and fluid buildup around the affected joint or muscle.
• Bruising: Discoloration of the skin due to blood vessel damage.
• Limited Range of Motion: Difficulty moving the injured joint or muscle.
• Tenderness to the Touch: Pain when pressure is applied to the injured area.
• Muscle Spasms: Involuntary contractions of the affected muscle (more common with strains).
• A feeling of a "pop" or "tear" (less common in minor injuries but possible).

If you experience any of these symptoms after an injury, it's crucial to seek medical evaluation to determine the extent of the damage and receive appropriate care.

Diagnosis at California Urgent Care Center in Stockton

When you visit California Urgent Care Center in Stockton for a suspected sprain or strain, our medical professionals will conduct a thorough evaluation. This typically involves:

• Medical History Review: We will ask about how the injury occurred, your symptoms, and any relevant past medical conditions.
• Physical Examination: Our provider will carefully examine the injured area, checking for tenderness, swelling, bruising, range of motion, and stability.
• Imaging Studies (if necessary): In most minor sprains and strains, X-rays are not required. However, if there is a concern for a fracture or other bony injury, we have on-site X-ray capabilities to provide quick and accurate imaging.

Based on the evaluation, our team will provide a diagnosis and develop a personalized treatment plan to facilitate your recovery.

Call (209) 224-8517 or contact us online today to learn more about treatment for sprains and strains in Stockton.