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Differentiating Sprains, Strains and Breaks: Understanding the Injuries and How to Properly Care for Them

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Sprains, strains, and breaks are all common types of injuries that can occur in the body, but they are caused by different types of trauma and have different symptoms & treatment plans. Understanding the differences between these injuries can help individuals make informed decisions about when to seek medical attention and how to properly care for the injury.

A sprain is an injury to a ligament, which is the tissue that connects bones to each other. Sprains typically occur when a joint is stretched or twisted in an abnormal way, such as when a person twists an ankle while walking on uneven ground. A sprain is characterized by pain, swelling, stiffness, and difficulty moving the joint. Treatment for a sprain typically includes rest, ice, compression, and elevation (the RICE method) to reduce swelling and pain, as well as physical therapy to strengthen the joint and restore range of motion.

 

A strain is an injury to a muscle or tendon, which is the tissue that connects muscles to bones. Strains typically occur when a muscle is stretched or torn, such as when a person lifts a heavy object or overworks a muscle during exercise. The symptoms of a strain include pain, cramping, stiffness, and difficulty moving the affected muscle. Treatment for a strain typically includes rest, ice, and physical therapy to reduce pain and inflammation and to restore strength and flexibility.

 

A break, or fracture, is an injury to a bone. Breaks can occur as a result of a direct impact, such as a fall or car accident, or as a result of overuse or repetitive stress, such as in the case of a stress fracture. Symptoms of a break include severe pain, swelling, and bruising in the affected area, as well as difficulty moving the affected limb. Treatment for a break typically includes immobilization of the affected limb, such as with a cast or brace, to allow the bone to heal, as well as physical therapy to regain strength and mobility once the bone has healed.

It’s important to note that sprains and strains can be difficult to distinguish, as they can share similar symptoms such as pain, swelling, and stiffness. However, sprains typically occur in joints and result from an abnormal twisting or stretching of the ligaments, while strains occur in muscles and result from overuse or excessive stretching. Breaks can be more easily distinguished as they result in severe pain, swelling and difficulty moving the limb.

It’s important to seek medical attention if you suspect you have a sprain, strain, or break. A doctor or emergency medical professional will be able to properly diagnose your injury and provide you with the appropriate treatment plan. In some cases, imaging such as X-rays or MRI’s may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis.

 

It’s also important to follow proper aftercare for the injury, including rest, ice, compression and elevation if necessary, and physical therapy. Returning to normal activities too soon can delay healing and increase the risk of re-injury. Understanding the differences between these injuries can help individuals make informed decisions about when to seek medical attention and how to properly care for the injury. It’s important to seek medical attention if you suspect you have a sprain, strain, or break and follow proper aftercare to ensure a full recovery.

 

At Victoria ER, we offer comprehensive care for a variety of injuries, including strains, sprains, breaks, and other physical injuries. We have state-of-the art imaging capabilities, including X-rays, CT Scans, and Ultrasounds. Our trained medical professionals are dedicated to providing high-quality care to our patients. We also offer specialized pediatric care, ensuring that even our youngest patients receive the best possible care in a safe and welcoming environment.

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Kids Christmas Gifts & Tips

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Parents, did you know December is National Safe Toys and Gifts Month? Approximately 3 billion toys are sold within the United States each year and your attention is important. This holiday season, your family and friends may want to give your children a gift they’re sure to remember and be entertained by for months to come, but some of these toys can be dangerous. 

Standard testing of children’s toys by the CPSC, or U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has helped to create confidence within American families who plan to purchase gifts by requiring all products be tested in laboratories around the world. Most parents and caretakers are already aware that smaller parts can pose as a choking hazard to children, but what lurks within the plastics or metals your child may come into contact with can be scarier.

The CPSC helps to enforce toy standards which keeps dangerous products containing lead or high amounts of phthalates at ports from where they are shipped and out of the marketplace before they come into contact with children.

It’s important to read labels and all instructions from the manufacturer regarding the product which you are buying before leaving it within your child’s reach. You should always separate gifts and toys within your home by age group, whether they’re placed in different bins or kept on a shelf away from younger children.

Once your children’s gifts have been opened, discard any plastic wrapping and unnecessary toy packaging before it has the chance to become a problem. If a toy requires batteries, the installation and changing of them should be supervised by adults. Don’t forget that chargers or certain adapters can also pose a risk for thermal burns and electric hazards for younger kids; warnings on labels and instructions should be taken seriously as some of these products lack the ability to prevent overcharging. 

Ultimately, adults should always supervise children and their friends when playing with toys that require small parts or accessories, and take proper precautions when using scooters, bikes, or any other riding toys which can transport children. 

A safer holiday can make for a healthier and happier one, keeping your child free from risks or being seriously injured. At Victoria ER, we are prepared for the unexpected and are able to treat any emergency. If you find your child needs immediate attention, don’t hesitate as our staff is available and ready to make your family a priority 24/7, including holidays and weekends.

 

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Bringing The Gold Standard To The Crossroads

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Victoria ER 24 Hour Emergency Center is bringing the gold standard in medicine to the Crossroads. Experience the latest in advanced medical treatment with the addition of a new IV treatment for patients with COVID-19 and the arrival of on-site PCR COVID-19 Testing in the Crossroads area. The integration of modern diagnostics and testing will allow us to adapt seamlessly to the needs of our local population.

Victoria ER is honored to begin conducting PCR COVID-19 Testing at our on-site laboratory. PCR testing is the most specific and most sensitive testing method for detecting Coronavirus, and with the addition of this technology at our facility, we can provide our patients with same day result accuracy. This CDC preferred testing method is available 24 hours at Victoria ER for all individuals whether its for travel, medical procedures, work, or school.

We have been providing our community with PCR COVID-19 testing throughout the pandemic, but we no longer depend on off-site laboratories to receive patient specimens and deliver your test results. At the peak of the pandemic, patient PCR Test results took up to 10 days to receive in an off-site lab. Victoria ER’s ability to manage 24-hour, on-site PCR Testing allows our staff control to give you results within the same day of your PCR COVID-19 Test.

Victoria ER 24 Hour Emergency Center can help you combat the virus within a few hours with antibody IV therapy drug (bamlanivimab and etesevimab), to treat mild-to-moderate COVID-19 in patients ages 12 and up. Bamlanivimab and etesevimab, administered together, has been granted Emergency Use Authorization from the FDA as it has shown a decrease in hospitalizations in patients diagnosed with COVID-19 by directly blocking the virus’ ability to attach and enter human cells.

The ability to tackle the virus at an early onset is a tool that Victoria ER can provide you in treating COVID-19. Our staff will provide you with a private room and one-on-one care to significantly reduce the severity and progression that COVID-19 may have on you, all within minutes of checking in.

Victoria ER aims to provide the Crossroads with the latest in testing and diagnostics without the long wait of regular hospital ER. The advantage of a freestanding ER over a hospital is whether you are checking in for PCR COVID-19 testing, COVID-19 IV therapy, rapid testing, or any medical issue, you will be immediately taken to a private room and our ER physician and staff will be immediately alerted to your medical needs.

Please call us at 361-214-3813 with any questions regarding our protocols, or with questions regarding your medical safety. Because information about COVID-19 is constantly updating, you can find current details and resources at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

 

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A COVID-19 Holiday

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The holidays are a reminder of how much the health of our friends and family matter to one another, and Victoria ER 24 Hour Emergency Center wants that to continue into the new year. One can begin protecting your loved ones by taking proper precautions against the virus, whether that means social distancing or getting a PCR or COVID-19 Rapid Test before traveling for the holidays. If every individual aims to incorporate the safety guidelines below, we may help decrease the coronavirus cases that are rising throughout the Crossroads.

Celebrate with Your Household
Any family members or roommates who are taking consistent measures against COVID-19 are at low risk for spreading the virus. Keeping the invite list short protects your gathering from individuals who may have been exposed through public transportation, it also allows you to properly social distance during the gathering, and proper safety measures such as wearing masks and handwashing are easier to practice.

Feeling Ill? Just hold still.
Victoria ER 24 Hour Emergency Center reminds you that COVID-19 has a wide range of symptoms that may easily be confused with conditions such as allergies, the flu, or just a cold. Although some individuals who were exposed may not experience severe symptoms, or any symptoms, the coronavirus is highly contagious, and it is recommended to not attend any gatherings for 14 days. A COVID-19 case can be easily diagnosed at Victoria ER where our ER Nurses and ER Doctors consult you in your vehicle, perform a nasal swab, and will provide you with results in 15 minutes. Learn more about our COVID-19 services here.

Continue the Basics
Victoria ER 24 Hour Emergency Center asks the Crossroads area to carry on these prevention tips.

  1. Clean Hands: Wash hands for 20 seconds or use hand sanitizer with 60% alcohol.
  2. Cover: Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze or use the inside of your elbow.
  3. Don’t Touch: Try to avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth. Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily.
  4. Avoid: Avoid close contact with people who are sick. If you do need to be around others, put distance between them and yourself.

Victoria ER is available throughout the holidays, day or night, for every emergency you or a loved one may be going through. Experience concierge care, COVID-19 safety protocols, and no wait time for every visit. Please feel free to contact us regarding any questions 24/7 at (361) 214-3813. Because COVID-19 information is constantly updating, you can find current details and resources at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

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COVID-19 Collides with Flu Season

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As we are approaching the Fall and Winter months with COVID-19 fully present, it is vital that Victoria, Texas, and the Crossroads area are readily prepared for the upcoming flu season. Victoria ER 24 Hour Emergency Center wants to ensure that we uphold the health of the public by providing Rapid COVID-19 Testing and Rapid Flu Testing, which both yield results in 15 minutes. By letting our patients know their results promptly after testing, we hope that more efficient precautions between individuals will take immediate effect, thus limiting the spread of both illnesses.

The Influenza virus and COVID-19 are both respiratory illnesses that share many of the same symptoms, so it would be difficult to confirm a diagnosis without the help of a proper test that is easily done by our staff at Victoria ER. One should become familiar with the signs and symptoms of both Flu and COVID-19 to be aware of when you should get tested.

SIMILARITIES BETWEEN FLU & COVID-19:
• Fever or Chills
• Cough
• Shortness of Breath
• Fatigue
• Sore Throat
• Congestion or Runny Nose
• Body Aches
• Headaches
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea

DIFFERENCES BETWEEN FLU & COVID-19:
• Flu: Flu illness may range from mild to severe symptoms of those listed above.
• COVID-19: An additional symptom of COVID-19 includes a new loss in taste or smell.

As more people respond promptly to the flu, the better chance they have at protecting their loved ones against the virus. Stay ahead of Flu and COVID-19 by getting a rapid test today through our Curbside Service and plan to get your flu shot early this year. Victoria ER 24 Hour Emergency Center is available throughout every emergency you are experiencing, visit us when it is most convenient to you and experience concierge care in a private and sanitized room for every visit.

You can find more information about the COVID-19 Rapid Test, PCR COVID-19 Test, COVID-19 Antibody Testing, and our Curbside Services here.

Please call us at 361-214-3813 with any questions regarding our protocols, or with questions regarding your medical safety. Because information about COVID-19 is constantly updating, you can find current details and resources at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

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When Should You Visit An ER

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When should you go to the ER? At Victoria ER 24 Hour Emergency Center, your emergency is our priority. Learn about the 5 most common emergency symptoms for an ER visit.

Lacerations & Wounds

When uncertain about how serious your injury may be, Victoria ER 24 Hour Emergency Center believes it is best to seek immediate emergency care. Lacerations can require sutures depending on the severity of the wound or could require a tetanus shot if the injury resulted from a human or animal bite.

Back Pain

People are frequently visiting the ER due to back pain. Although some back pain will be relieved with rest, unrelenting pain accompanied with fever, numbness, or weakness would require emergency care for an underlying medical condition.

Headaches & Migraines

Headaches are common reasons to visit an emergency room. Migraines are usually presented with symptoms that are not presented with your average headache, such as fever, weakness, double vision, or confusion. The goal for ER doctors is to ensure that there is no life-threatening issue and to help reduce suffering.

Chest Pain

Although chest pain typically aligns with heart-related issues, there could be a variety of causes. Chest pain is common and can be linked to heart attacks which would require immediate intervention from an ER physician as they can be fatal.

Abdominal Pain

Abdominal pain is not normal, and is commonly seen in an ER when the pain is severe and unrelenting. Severe stomach pain accompanied with fever, vomiting, difficulty breathing, and other symptoms is an emergency and would require care from a facility like Victoria ER 24 Hour Emergency Center.

 

Without the wait of an over-crowded hospital emergency room, Victoria ER offers no wait times in a comfortable, inviting waiting room designed to deliver the most pleasant patient experience possible. We are prepared to handle your medical emergency 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and no appointment is needed.

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National Doctor’s Day: Dr. Hathorn

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March 30th is National Doctor’s Day, and Victoria ER wants to shine the spotlight on one of our amazing physicians. Dr. Joseph Hathorn is an emergency physician at Victoria ER and has been practicing emergency medicine in Texas for over 15 years.

To learn more about Dr. Hathorn and his experience, we were able to ask him some questions about why working at an emergency facility like Victoria ER is so special.

  1. Tell us about an average day in the life of an ER Doctor.

“I generally start the day by checking the patient log from the previous day. These are patients that I will need to do call backs on for that day. We call back all of our patients to follow-up with them and see how they are doing. I generally start calling patients from the previous day during the late morning or early afternoon hours.

“After checking the patient log, I will eat breakfast and mentally prepare myself for the shift. Throughout the day, when there is down time, I will generally catch up on anything that I wasn’t able to take care of on the previous day.”

  1. What is your favorite part of your day?

“I enjoy the early morning and late shifts the most, as strange as that might sound. Those are quieter times of day, when I can catch up on my patient files and make sure we’re ready for the rest of the day and night. It is relaxing!”

  1. When did you know that you wanted to be a doctor?

“I knew in high school. I had a Physics teacher during my junior year, who told me to consider medicine as a career. Having that kind of encouragement had an effect on me, and early on gave me some direction. I found my passion for it in medical school when I got to connect with patients and start to really practice medicine, instead of just studying it.”

  1. How do you think your work at your facility is making the healthcare industry better?

“Our goal is to make the ER more accessible for patients, and to focus on giving them the treatment they deserve. The idea is to place the highest value on their time by getting them treated quickly, and value them as individuals by giving them respect and dignity. Patients generally don’t get this in the hospital environment because of the overcrowding and sometimes inadequate resources.”

  1. How has working in medicine changed your life?

“Medicine has made me appreciate things that most people may take for granted. This may be because of what I have seen over my almost 18 years of ER practice. The little day-to-day mishaps that may be trivial for some are having a bigger impact on others as I continue practicing emergency medicine. The importance of healthy living and taking care of yourself has become clear to me as a must for balance and success in life.”

 

Victoria ER is proud to have Dr. Hathorn practicing on our medical team. This National Doctor’s Day we appreciate and honor all that he does at our facility.

Dr Hathorn obtained his medical degree from the University of California, Davis School of Medicine. He completed his Emergency Medicine Residency from the King Drew Medical Center in Los Angeles, CA. Dr Hathorn has been in Emergency Medicine clinical practice for the past 17 years.

Dr Hathorn is Board Certified by the American Board of Emergency Medicine. He currently resides in Houston, TX. His wife is a Board Certified Ob-Gyn practicing in Houston, TX. They both have 2 children, ages 4 and 7.

Nutex Health, Inc. supports you and your family’s health. Come visit Victoria ER or any one of our concierge-level freestanding facilities for the emergency care you deserve, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

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Learn How Our Nurse Impacts Your Emergency Care

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When thinking of your medical care, a doctor will most likely come to mind, but did you know that nurses are the primary providers of patient care? 

In fact, nurses also deliver most of our long-term care. In many ways, nurses are more than medical professionals, they’re also caretakers and support systems.

During this National Nurses Week, we’re going to learn more about some of the talented nursing staff at Victoria ER with one of our own, Jenette Hill, RN. Keep reading for a deeper look as to how nurses impact your emergency care!

 

Q: What made you want to be a nurse?
A: My daughter gave me the idea. I lost my job and called to give her the news. She thought a minute and said, “Well, maybe this is a blessing in disguise. You always wanted to go to college. You can always support yourself with a career in nursing.” As I looked into the nursing program, I began to get more and more interested. I was accepted into the nursing program, and there began my passion for nursing. I can’t imagine myself doing anything else.
Q: What does a typical day at the facility look like for you?
A: Every day is different. I find that patient symptoms come in waves.  For example, some days are mostly orthopedics. The patients get an x-ray, medication for pain and a splint.  Other days, we see a lot of patients with gastrointestinal issues. These patients get an IV and have blood drawn for labs, fluids for rehydration and medication for nausea and pain. Sometimes those patients need an abdomen CT scan. Patients typically leave with a script for medications. Those are just a couple examples. We see patients with a wide range of medical issues. If necessary, they’re transferred to a hospital for further medical care. We do our best to ensure our patients are well taken care of and happy when they leave.
Q: How does your job impact the patient’s emergency care experience? 
A: I believe my job impacts the patients emergency care in a positive manner.  We don’t let our patients sit in the lobby. They are brought to a room within a few minutes of arrival.  They are seen by the physician a few minutes later.  Our staff is friendly, efficient and professional. Patients seem to be impressed that we can do so much for them. We have several patients that return to us because they had positive experience in our facility. They have also recommended us to their friends and coworkers, which is a testament to our patient satisfaction and care.
Q: What’s it like working at a freestanding facility, and specifically, your facility? 
A: After working at Victoria ER, I will never go back to a hospital ER. I enjoy my job. I actually have the opportunity to talk with my patients, instead of running into their room, then running out. I have time to teach patients how to protect their health for the future, which is incredibly rewarding. We really value accessability in emergency care, which is why patients have the opportunity to talk to any of the staff or the doctor during their visit.

Victoria ER is your local emergency center, offering no-wait concierge-level medical care 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Our facility is equipped with the most advanced technology available, including CT scanner, X-Ray and bedside ultrasound, for your care. To learn more about the services we offer, visit this page.

Have you visited our facility? Let us know how we can improve your emergency care experience!

Nutex Health, Inc. supports you and your family’s health. Come visit Victoria Emergency Center or any one of our concierge-level freestanding facilities for the emergency care you deserve, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
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Celebrating National Doctor’s Day With Q&A

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There are over 45,000 emergency physicians in the U.S., and at Victoria ER, we have the some of the best of these doctors practicing at our facility.

Since it’s National Doctor’s Day, we’re going to hear from of our physicians, Dr. Joseph Hathorn, on why he become a physician and how Victoria ER bridges the gap between a traditional emergency department and concierge-style care.

 

What made you want to become a physician?

When I was in high school, I had a Physics teacher encourage me to consider a career in medicine. It was always a consideration but I didn’t really seriously focus on the possibility until after that point. Having a well-respected teacher who believed in me like that had a huge effect. When I entered college I had already made my mind up that I would be pre-med. I think going into college knowing exactly what I wanted to do helped me to become impervious to the typical distractions that college kids, especially freshmen, can easily fall prey to.

So, what’s a typical day at the facility look like for you?

My day at the facility typically starts at 9am. When I first come in, I check with the outgoing physician to see if there are any patients that need to be signed out so that I can assume care. If there are patients, we will go over the patient’s history and current status in the facility and see if there are any pending test results.

After that is done, I will go to my call room and get myself ready for the day. I will usually eat breakfast and get myself settled in for the day. I will do patient callbacks, something that the oncoming physician must do, usually during the first portion of the shift.

If there is any down time or a period where there are no patients, I may try to catch up on reading or spend some time on anything that needs my immediate attention.

How does Victoria ER differ from other emergency departments?

Working at this facility is a “breath of fresh air” when compared to a typical hospital ER. Unlike at the hospital, I can see patients very quickly and give them the quality time and service that they truly deserve. Patients are very appreciative of this and we know it makes a difference in their care experience.

I also like the fact that test results come back much faster when compared to the hospital. This means our patients are on their way to feeling better, faster. Our staff is motivated by the positive patient experience and in return, they’re able to perform their jobs optimally. It is a win-win for the patients and the staff taking care of them.

Victoria ER is a state-of-the-art facility with CT scanner, X-Ray and ultrasound in addition to our comprehensive list of lab services. Our ER trained and experienced physicians are committed to providing with you the no-wait, exceptional emergency care experience you deserve 24/7. Your health and satisfaction is our priority.

Want to learn more about the services we provide? Check out this page. 

Nutex Health, Inc. supports you and your family’s health. Come visit Victoria Emergency Center or any one of our concierge-level freestanding facilities for the emergency care you deserve, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

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What You Should Know About Heart Attack & Heart Disease

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Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the U.S., causing a quarter of all deaths each year.

Contrary to what you might think, you aren’t predetermined to develop heart disease, even if there’s family history. While certain factors, like a family history, may increase your risk, heart disease is preventable. Learn more from one of our own doctors, Dr. Joseph Hathorn, about recognizing signs of heart attack and heart disease prevention during this National Heart Health Month.

 
 
How do I know if someone is having a heart attack?

The text book presentation for heart attack is pressure-like pain in the center of the chest that may radiate to the left. The person may also experience shortness of breath and sweating. Still though, many patients do not have symptoms such as these, particularly diabetics, older patients and women, says Dr. Hathorn.

Often, these patients experience more vague symptoms such as weakness, dizziness or extreme fatigue. They may have associated symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, jaw pain or back pain as well. The key to determining whether or not someone is having a heart attack is to look at their risk factors for the disease. What are some of the most common risk factors?

    • Diabetes
    • High Cholesterol
    • Smoking
    • Family History
    • High Blood Pressure
Are there any signs I can look for before the heart attack that may indicate an episode later?

Any chest discomfort that is associated with exertion, shortness of breath and a decrease in exercise tolerance (becoming harder to tolerate low levels of exercise intensity) should be a cause for concern. You should seek medical attention if you notice these symptoms, and at a minimum have a stress test performed, says Dr. Hathorn.

What should I do if someone is having a heart attack?

If someone is having symptoms related to a heart attack, call 911 immediately. Do not try to transport these patients to receive emergency attention yourself. Paramedics have the necessary equipment and expertise that will minimize potential complications related to a heart attack.

You may also give them an aspirin while waiting for emergency responders as it’s been shown to decrease the mortality rate in heart attack patients, says Dr. Hathorn.

What are some preventative measures I can take against heart attack?

The best way to prevent heart attack is to address the risk factors associated with the disease. The main risk factors are diabetes, high cholesterol, smoking, family history and high blood pressure. While you cannot change your family history, you can watch your diet and consume less processed foods and sugar.

You can also exercise on a regular basis, and get regular doctor visits. Avoid smoking tobacco. This one risk factor alone has been associated with a much higher predisposition for heart disease, says Dr. Hathorn.

We encourage our patients to see your regular physician about a long term heart health plan. Visit this page to learn more about heart disease and preventative measures you can take.

How do you take care of your heart health?

Nutex Health, Inc. supports you and your family’s health. Come visit Victoria Emergency Center or any one of our concierge-level freestanding facilities for the emergency care you deserve, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

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