Should i go to the hospital? yesterday i went out on a hike and slipped and fell into the mud. i caught myself with my right arm and now that is very sore. i also twisted my ankle, and not only does it hurt to put pressure on it but if i step on it, the p

The : The only way to tell if you have a fracture is with an x-ray. If you're in a lot of pain, go to the er. If you can wait a day or so, go see an orthopedic surgeon who can x-ray your ankle and arm in their office.

I : I agree with dr. Fox. You need an examination and x-rays to determine the extent of your injuries. Inability to bear weight is an indication for ankle x-rays to see if there is a fracture. X-rays are also recommended for the right arm. The question is, rather, do you need to go to the hospital? In orthopaedics, there are things that constitute true emergencies that should be seen right away: hip fractures, open fractures, injuries with numbness or weakness, excessive swelling that decreases blood flow, injuries to blood vessels, any dislocation, and grossly displaced fractures. Less severe injuries can be iced, elevated, braced, and rested and seen within a day or two. However, significant delay can make treatment much more difficult. Er's and urgent care centers often have high copays and long wait times. Urgent care centers sometimes have limited access to specialists and limited ability to get images. However, they will often see you regardless of insurance and are open more hours. Many orthopaedic surgery offices will be able to get you in quickly. You will have direct access to the specialists and most have imaging on-site. Sometimes your insurance will require a primary care referral first.