- Ankle, wrist & knee sprains
- X-ray imaging
- Pain management
- Rehabilitation guidance
Sprain Treatment in Chicago Expert Injury Care
Injured yourself with a sprain? Clinica Urgent Care provides comprehensive sprain treatment in Chicago. Our experienced medical team offers immediate evaluation, X-ray imaging, pain management, and rehabilitation guidance to help you recover quickly and safely.
Understanding Sprains
What is a Sprain?
What is a Sprain?
A sprain is an injury to the ligaments around a joint. Ligaments are strong, flexible fibers that hold bones together. When a ligament is stretched beyond its normal range, it can tear, causing a sprain. Sprains can range from mild to severe.
Sprain Severity Grades
Grade 1 (Mild)
- Ligament stretched but not torn
- Minimal pain and swelling
- Little to no joint instability
- Recovery time: 1-2 weeks
Grade 2 (Moderate)
- Partial ligament tear
- Moderate pain and swelling
- Some joint instability
- Recovery time: 3-6 weeks
Grade 3 (Severe)
- Complete ligament tear
- Severe pain and swelling
- Significant joint instability
- Recovery time: 6-12 weeks or more
Common Types of Sprains We Treat
Ankle Sprains
- Most common type of sprain
- Usually involves lateral (outside) ligaments
- Caused by rolling or twisting ankle
- Symptoms: Pain, swelling, bruising, difficulty walking
Wrist Sprains
- Common in falls and sports
- Often involves scapholunate ligament
- Caused by falling on outstretched hand
- Symptoms: Pain, swelling, difficulty gripping
Knee Sprains
- Can involve multiple ligaments (ACL, MCL, PCL, LCL)
- Common in sports and activities
- Caused by sudden direction changes or impact
- Symptoms: Pain, swelling, instability, popping sound
Thumb Sprains
- Often called “skier’s thumb”
- Involves ulnar collateral ligament
- Caused by falling with ski pole or ball impact
- Symptoms: Pain at base of thumb, weakness
Our Sprain Treatment Services
Immediate Evaluation
- Detailed injury history and mechanism
- Physical examination of injured joint
- Range of motion assessment
- Stability testing of ligaments
- Pain and swelling evaluation
Diagnostic Imaging
- Digital X-rays to rule out fractures
- Stress X-rays for ligament assessment
- Same-day results and interpretation
- Referral for MRI if needed for complex injuries
Acute Treatment (RICE Protocol)
Rest
- Avoid activities that cause pain
- Use crutches for lower extremity sprains
- Immobilization with splint or brace if needed
Ice
- Apply ice 15-20 minutes every 2-3 hours
- Use ice pack or frozen peas wrapped in towel
- Continue for first 48-72 hours
- Helps reduce swelling and pain
Compression
- Elastic bandage or compression sleeve
- Snug but not too tight
- Remove if numbness or tingling
- Helps control swelling
Elevation
- Raise injured limb above heart level
- Use pillows for support
- Especially important when resting
- Helps reduce swelling
Pain Management
- Over-the-counter pain relievers (ibuprofen, acetaminophen)
- Prescription pain medications if needed
- Topical anti-inflammatory creams
- Ice therapy for acute pain
Immobilization and Support
- Ankle braces for ankle sprains
- Wrist splints for wrist injuries
- Knee braces for knee sprains
- Buddy taping for finger/toe sprains
- Crutches for weight-bearing restrictions
Treatment by Sprain Location
Ankle Sprain Treatment
- RICE protocol immediately
- Weight-bearing as tolerated
- Ankle brace for support
- Physical therapy for severe sprains
- Gradual return to activities
Wrist Sprain Treatment
- Wrist splint for immobilization
- Avoid gripping activities
- Gentle range of motion exercises
- Occupational therapy if needed
- Gradual strengthening
Knee Sprain Treatment
- Knee brace for stability
- Crutches if weight-bearing painful
- Physical therapy essential
- Possible MRI for severe injuries
- Specialist referral if needed
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Phase 1: Acute (0-72 hours)
- RICE protocol
- Pain management
- Protection from further injury
- Gentle movement as tolerated
Phase 2: Early Recovery (3 days - 2 weeks)
- Gradual increase in movement
- Gentle stretching exercises
- Weight-bearing progression
- Continue protection measures
Phase 3: Strengthening (2-6 weeks)
- Progressive strengthening exercises
- Balance and proprioception training
- Functional activities
- Sport-specific training if applicable
Phase 4: Return to Activity (6+ weeks)
- Full range of motion restored
- Strength equal to uninjured side
- Confidence in injured joint
- Gradual return to full activities
Prevention Strategies
General Prevention
- Proper warm-up before activities
- Appropriate footwear for activities
- Strengthen supporting muscles
- Improve balance and coordination
- Avoid fatigue during activities
Sport-Specific Prevention
- Use proper technique
- Wear protective equipment
- Condition appropriately for sport
- Follow safety rules
- Listen to your body
When to Seek Immediate Care
Red Flags
- Severe pain that doesn’t improve
- Inability to bear weight or use joint
- Numbness or tingling
- Joint appears deformed
- Skin color changes (blue, white)
- No improvement after 2-3 days
Complications of Untreated Sprains
Potential Problems
- Chronic joint instability
- Recurrent sprains
- Arthritis development
- Chronic pain
- Reduced function
- Muscle weakness
Return to Activity Guidelines
Criteria for Return
- Pain-free range of motion
- Normal strength
- Good balance and coordination
- Confidence in joint stability
- Cleared by healthcare provider
Gradual Progression
- Start with low-impact activities
- Increase intensity gradually
- Use protective equipment initially
- Monitor for pain or swelling
- Stop if symptoms return
Why Choose Clinica Urgent Care for Sprains
Expert Injury Care
- Experienced providers in sports medicine
- Comprehensive evaluation of joint injuries
- On-site X-ray capabilities
- Immediate treatment and pain relief
- Rehabilitation guidance
Complete Care
- Acute injury management
- Pain control options
- Immobilization devices available
- Physical therapy referrals
- Follow-up care coordination
Convenient Access
- Walk-in availability for injuries
- Extended hours for weekend injuries
- Sports injury expertise
- Insurance accepted
- Quick treatment to prevent complications
Cost Information
Pricing
- Office Visit: $100
- X-ray (2 views): $75
- Splint/Brace: $25-75 depending on type
- Crutches: $25 rental
- Most insurance plans accepted
Follow-Up Care
When to Return
- Worsening pain or swelling
- New numbness or tingling
- No improvement in 1 week
- Recurrent injury
- Questions about activity restrictions
Contact Information
Address: 8634 S Pulaski Rd, Chicago, IL 60652
Phone: (872) 267-7956
Hours: Monday-Sunday 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Insurance Plans
We Accept Most Insurance Plans
Testimonials
What Our Patients Are Saying
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