When to visit MD Now® urgent care: A guide to minor injuries

Injuries happen, whether it’s a sprained ankle during a morning run, a cut while cooking or bumps and bruises from a slip at home. Many of these can be cared for at home, but sometimes you need professional medical attention to help you recover. Knowing when to visit urgent care for minor injuries can help you make the right decision for your treatment.

What is a minor injury?

Minor injuries occur when we have pain or discomfort that is not threatening to life or long-term health. Minor injuries can happen anywhere — at work, school or home. Some of the most common include:

• Sprains and strains
• Cuts and scrapes
• Bruises
• Minor burns
• Bumps and falls
• Sports-related injuries

The length of recovery time for these injuries varies, but they can range from a few days to several weeks depending on the injury and severity. Sometimes, symptoms can mimic more serious conditions, so it's wise to seek evaluation if you suspect fractures, muscle strains, ligament damage or other minor injuries.

First aid for minor injuries

While safety should always come first, not every injury requires the same level of medical attention. Knowing when to seek urgent care can save time and ensure proper treatment. Here are some general first aid steps:

Sprains, strains and bruises

Active lifestyles and organized sports can increase the risk of injuries like sprains or pulled muscles. For these types of injuries, the RICE method is a tried-and-true approach.

• Rest the injured area
• Ice in 15-20 minute intervals
• Compression with a bandage for support
• Elevation to reduce swelling

While many can be treated at home, it’s important to visit urgent care if pain is severe, swelling doesn’t improve or movement is limited. MD Now provides on-site X-rays, splinting and other treatments to support safe recovery.

Cuts and scrapes

Gently wash the wound with mild soap and water, then cover it with a clean bandage. Replace the bandage daily or anytime it becomes wet or dirty. Continue this process until the wound is fully healed. Keep an eye out for signs of infection like redness, warmth or pus — if you notice anything like those, a trip to urgent care is best.

Burns

Treatment for burns often depends on the size and location of the burn wound. If you notice a burn larger than three inches, or if it is located on the face, hands or genital area, you should seek prompt medical attention. For minor burns, run cool water over the burn for 10-20 minutes and cover with gauze or a sterile non-stick pad. Avoid butters, oils or similar substances that can trap heat.

When to seek urgent care

Often, at-home care can resolve most minor injuries. But some situations call for medical attention. Visit your nearest MD Now clinic if you notice:

• Severe pain or swelling that doesn’t improve
• Inability to move the affected area or bear weight
• A cut that is deep, won’t stop bleeding or may need stitches
• Signs of infection such as redness, warmth, pus or fever
• A suspected fracture or dislocation
• Burns larger than three inches or found on the face, hands or genital area
• Any time your injury concerns you

If you or your family experience a minor injury and you’re not sure what to do next, utilize our convenient Web Check-In® and wait from anywhere. Our teams are ready to provide the care you need, when you need it.

About MD Now® urgent care

MD Now® urgent care is Florida’s largest urgent care operator with 100+ state-of-the-art clinics conveniently located across the state of Florida. MD Now urgent care’s physician-led team provides high-quality healthcare through a comprehensive lineup of urgent care and occupational health services during convenient hours. MD Now urgent care is proud to be affiliated with HCA Florida Healthcare. For more information, visit the MD Now website.