Acute injuries can be a serious health issue and hold you back from performing even the simplest of tasks. The good news, however, is that they’re easily treatable and don’t have to become a persisting problem that you have to deal with permanently.
In this article, learn about acute injuries and find out what you can do to treat them and prevent them from happening. First, understand what an acute injury is and how it differs from other types of injuries.
What are acute injuries?
Acute injuries are a type of injury that usually results from a single traumatic event. They are most commonly caused by physical activities or accidents and are characterized by severe pain and swelling around the affected body parts. Typically, these injuries are temporary, meaning they occur suddenly and also last for a short period of time.
Acute injuries are most commonly associated with playing sports and other physically demanding tasks. Some of the most common acute injuries brought on by such activities include fractures, dislocations, strains, and sprains. However, acute injuries can also happen at home or in the workplace. These accidental injuries may include cuts, burns, and back pain.
How are acute injuries prevented?
Preventing acute injuries from happening is always a smart idea. You can avoid them by following these tips:
- Do warm-up exercises and stretch before participating in physical activity.
- Ensure that you utilize proper form and technique.
- Condition your body to strengthen muscles and improve flexibility.
- Allow time for recovery and don’t engage in physical activity when already in pain.
- Stay hydrated and properly nourished.
- Exercise caution and always wear appropriate safety gear.
How are acute injuries treated?
Most acute injuries are immediately treated using R.I.C.E. therapy, which stands for rest, ice, compression, and elevation. This method can be applied as soon as you get hurt.
To use this method, first, stop using the injured body part immediately and avoid more physical activity. Next, apply a cold compress to the injury to minimize both swelling and pain, then wrap the area with an elastic bandage to aid the process. Finally, keep the affected body part elevated above the heart to reduce throbbing. Keep in mind, however, that this treatment is not suitable for burns and open wounds. Different ways of treatment are needed for these injuries, depending on the severity.
After successful R.I.C.E. therapy, immobilization of the affected area may be required to promote healing. This is usually achieved with the help of a cast or splint and will keep the joint in place to prevent further injury. Finally, painkillers and corticosteroid injections may be prescribed to ease swelling and pain.
When to visit a healthcare provider
More serious injuries that cause fever, dizziness, and difficulty in breathing will require more specialized treatment. If your injuries are more severe and need urgent attention, you should visit the emergency room or a trained specialist immediately.
Visiting a healthcare provider can also give you access to more effective forms of treatment that accelerate the healing process. They can also prescribe the proper medication to address your symptoms.
If you’re in need of urgent care in the Macomb area, please don’t hesitate to give us a call or head directly to our clinic to receive treatment right away. Our highly-trained staff is available seven days a week for all your healthcare needs.
