It’s inevitable that kids will twist an ankle or take a tumble during their childhood — but deciding whether to take them to urgent care after these events can be tricky. Sprains are especially common during sports and in “busy” children, but many parents wonder when they should take their kids to urgent care for a sprain. Xpress Wellness Urgent Care is here to offer some guidelines to help you determine if an urgent care visit is the right move. 

When to Consider Urgent Care for a Sprain 

Some minor sprains can be treated at home with rest, ice, and a dose of kid-safe pain relievers. But sometimes, a sprain is more serious and needs extra attention. Head to an Xpress Wellness Urgent Care location if: 

1. The Pain Seems Severe: If your child cannot be consoled or is in a lot of pain, it’s better to get things checked out. Our providers can help rule out a more serious cause, and make sure your child is on the right path to recovery. 
2. The Swelling Doesn’t Go Down: Some swelling is to be expected with a sprain, but if it seems like it’s getting worse or isn’t improving with rest and ice, our providers can assess the injury and perform X-rays or other imaging to rule out fractures. 
3. They Can’t Put Weight on It: If your child can’t stand or walk without being in a significant amount of pain, it could point toward a more serious injury. We can provide the right support — whether it’s a splint, crutches, or other treatment and supportive therapy.