Understanding Fractures and Dislocations — and Their Treatments

A fracture is a break or crack in the bone. Dislocation is when two bones move out of place at their connecting joint.

Fractures and dislocations are often emergency situations. For injuries to large bones and joints, especially when the bone is exposed, seek immediate medical help at a hospital emergency room.

Fractures

You may be able to receive care at an urgent care clinic for minor fractures including:

• Broken fingers

• Broken toes

• Broken nose

• Broken hand

• Broken ankle

• Broken rib

• Broken foot
  
  
  

For a fracture, you may receive a splint, brace or cast to hold the fractured bone in place while it heals.

Dislocations

For a dislocation, a medical provider may recommend medications, a sling or splint, bone repositioning and/or rehabilitation. Common dislocations that can often be treated at urgent care include:

• Dislocated finger

• Dislocated shoulder

• Dislocated kneecap

• Dislocated jaw
  
  

Is a fracture worse than a broken bone?

Fractures and broken bones are the same thing. A fracture/broken bone is any loss of continuity of the bone.

Can you go to urgent care for a broken bone or dislocation?

If your injury is minor and no bone is exposed, WellNow Urgent Care may be able to help. All our clinics have x-ray capabilities and the resources to stabilize and splint broken fingers, toes and other mild fractures. Find a location near you to get started on your path to recovery.

WellNow Urgent Care is a series of urgent care clinics and virtual care serving the Midwest and Northeastern United States in Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, New York, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin.

Information contained in this blog is for informational or educational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice or consultations with healthcare professionals. The content is not meant to be complete or exhaustive or to apply to any specific individual's medical condition. Always refer to the personalized information given to you by your doctor or contact us directly.