Sprains and Strains Treatment at Niles Street in Bakersfield, CA

At Universal Urgent Care, we frequently treat sprains and strains—two of the most common injuries affecting the soft tissues around your joints. While these injuries may seem similar, understanding the difference is important for getting the right treatment and recovering quickly.
 
• Sprains occur when ligaments—the tough bands connecting bones at a joint—are stretched or torn. This usually happens after a sudden twist, fall, or impact, such as rolling your ankle while walking or playing sports.
• Strains involve muscles or tendons (the tissues that connect muscles to bones). Strains are often caused by overstretching, lifting something heavy, or repetitive movements. These injuries are common in the back and hamstring muscles.
 
Symptoms to Watch For: Both sprains and strains can cause pain, swelling, bruising, and limited movement. However, the specific symptoms and severity can vary depending on the location and extent of the injury.
 
Prompt and accurate evaluation is key to proper healing. Our experienced healthcare providers will:
 
• Examine your injury and determine whether you have a sprain or a strain
• Order X-rays or other imaging if necessary to rule out a fracture
• Recommend a personalized treatment plan, which may include rest, ice, compression, elevation (R.I.C.E.), medications, or supportive devices like braces or crutches
• Provide follow-up care instructions and referrals to specialists if needed
 
Getting the right care as soon as possible can help prevent complications and speed up your recovery. If you suffer a joint injury or experience persistent pain, don’t wait—visit Universal Urgent Care for expert, compassionate treatment.

We frequently treat patients with sprains and strains—common injuries that can happen during sports, exercise, or even everyday activities. A sprain occurs when the ligaments (the tough bands connecting bones in a joint) are overstretched or torn, often as a result of a fall, sudden twist, or impact that forces a joint beyond its normal range of motion. For example, twisting an ankle while walking on an uneven surface or landing awkwardly from a jump are typical ways sprains can occur.
 
Strains, by contrast, involve the muscles or tendons (which connect muscles to bones). These injuries typically happen when a muscle is stretched too far or contracts suddenly, such as when lifting heavy objects improperly, overexerting during physical activity, or making abrupt movements without warming up. Poor flexibility, repetitive motions, and fatigue can also increase your risk of both sprains and strains.
 
Whether you’re an athlete, enjoy physical activity, or simply experience an accident during daily life, you may be at risk for these types of injuries. Previous injuries, improper footwear, or inadequate equipment can further increase your susceptibility.
 
If you experience pain, swelling, or difficulty moving a joint or muscle, Universal Urgent Care is here to help. Our experienced medical team can quickly assess your injury and provide the appropriate care—whether it’s rest, support, or further treatment—to help you recover and get back to your daily routine safely. Walk in today or contact us to learn more about how we can support your health and recovery from sprains and strains.

Sprains and strains are among the most common injuries we see. These injuries affect the soft tissues of the body—sprains involve ligaments (the bands connecting bones at joints), while strains affect muscles or tendons.
 
Typical symptoms of a sprain include pain around the joint, swelling, bruising, tenderness, and difficulty moving the joint or putting weight on it. In some cases, you might notice the joint feels unstable or as if it could “give way.” Strains, on the other hand, usually result in localized pain, swelling, muscle spasms, cramping, or weakness in the affected area.
 
Both sprains and strains can limit your ability to move and may get worse with activity. If you’re experiencing severe pain, significant swelling, pronounced bruising, or cannot use the affected limb, it’s important to seek care promptly. These symptoms may indicate a more serious injury, such as a fracture or a complete tear.
 
Our experienced medical team can quickly assess your injury, provide on-site imaging if needed, and develop a treatment plan to help you recover safely. Walk in today—no appointment necessary—to get the expert care you need for sprains, strains, and other urgent injuries.

At Universal Urgent Care, our doctors understand that injuries like sprains and strains can happen unexpectedly—whether you’re playing sports, lifting heavy objects, or simply moving the wrong way. Both sprains and strains can cause pain, swelling, and limited movement, making it challenging to tell them apart. However, knowing the difference can help you decide when to seek professional care.
 
What’s the Difference?

• Sprains involve the stretching or tearing of ligaments—the tough bands that connect bones at your joints. Sprains often happen in the ankle, knee, or wrist, usually after a sudden twist or impact. Common symptoms include bruising, swelling, joint instability, and difficulty bearing weight.
• Strains affect muscles or tendons, which attach muscles to bones. They often result from overstretching or overusing a muscle during activities like lifting, sports, or even daily tasks. You might notice muscle spasms, cramping, weakness, and pain that worsens with movement.
 
While mild sprains and strains can often be managed at home with rest, ice, compression, and elevation (R.I.C.E.), you should visit us if:
 
• You can’t move the joint or muscle
• You can’t bear weight or walk
• There is severe swelling, bruising, or deformity
• Symptoms are worsening or not improving with home care
 
Our experienced medical team can assess your injury, provide prompt treatment, and help rule out more serious conditions like fractures or complete tears. Walk in or schedule a visit with us so you can get back on your feet safely and quickly. For more information, contact us or book an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 2121 Niles St, Bakersfield, CA 93305. We serve patients from Lakeview, East Niles, La Cresta,  Maltha, San Lauren, Southgate, Oil Junction, Oil City and surrounding areas.