Quick Answer:
Yes, urgent care is ideal for sprained ankles. They can X-ray to rule out fractures, provide splints or braces, prescribe pain medication, and give recovery instructions. Cost is typically $200-$400 with X-ray.
Sprained Ankle Treatment at Urgent Care
Urgent care centers are well-equipped to diagnose and treat ankle sprains, one of the most common injuries they see.
What Urgent Care Provides
- X-rays: Rule out fractures
- Physical exam: Assess severity
- Splint or brace: Immobilize the ankle
- Crutches: If needed for mobility
- Pain medication: NSAIDs or prescription
- RICE instructions: Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation
Sprain Severity Grades
| Grade | Severity | Recovery Time |
|---|
| Grade 1 | Mild (stretched ligament) | 1-3 weeks |
| Grade 2 | Moderate (partial tear) | 3-6 weeks |
| Grade 3 | Severe (complete tear) | Several months |
When to Go to ER Instead
- Obvious deformity (bone out of place)
- Bone visible through skin
- Complete inability to bear weight
- Numbness or severe swelling
Cost
| Service | Cost |
|---|
| Visit + exam | $100-$150 |
| X-ray | $100-$200 |
| Splint/brace | $30-$100 |
| Crutches | $20-$50 |
| Total | $200-$500 |
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