When to Get an X-Ray for a Suspected Fracture or Sprain

One wrong step, a sudden fall, or an unexpected twist—injuries happen in an instant. Whether it’s a misstep on uneven pavement, a hard tackle during a game, or simply slipping on a wet floor, the pain that follows can leave you wondering: Is it just a sprain, or did I break something?

The challenge is that fractures and sprains often feel similar at first. You might experience swelling, bruising, and intense pain, making it difficult to tell what’s really going on. Some fractures are obvious, with bones visibly out of place, while others—like hairline fractures—can be more subtle. Sprains, on the other hand, can be just as painful but don’t involve broken bones. However, leaving a serious injury untreated can lead to long-term complications, improper healing, and chronic pain. That’s why getting an X-ray at the right time is essential for proper treatment and recovery.

Fracture vs. Sprain: What’s the Difference?

Fractures and sprains are some of the most common injuries, but they happen in different ways.

A fracture is a break in the bone, which can range from a small hairline crack to a complete break where the bone separates. These injuries typically occur when a bone is subjected to high-impact force, such as a fall, sports injury, or direct blow. Fractures are classified into different types, including:

• Stable fractures – The bone is broken but remains aligned.
• Displaced fractures – The bone has moved out of position and may require realignment.
• Open fractures – The bone breaks through the skin, requiring immediate medical attention.
• Stress fractures – Small cracks caused by repetitive stress, often seen in athletes.

A sprain, on the other hand, occurs when a ligament is stretched or torn. Ligaments are tough, fibrous tissues that connect bones at the joints. Sprains are commonly seen in the ankles, knees, and wrists and are caused by sudden twisting or impact. Unlike fractures, sprains do not involve broken bones, but severe sprains can mimic fractures in terms of pain and swelling, making an X-ray necessary to rule out a break.

How to Know If It’s a Fracture

Pain alone is not always enough to determine whether you have a fracture. While sprains and other soft tissue injuries can be painful, fractures tend to have certain characteristics that set them apart.

• Severe, localized pain – If the pain is intense and doesn’t improve with rest, it may be a sign of a fracture.
• Visible deformity – If a limb or joint appears misshapen or out of place, this is a strong indicator of a broken bone.
• Swelling and bruising – While both sprains and fractures can cause swelling, fractures often result in significant bruising that spreads around the injured area.
• Limited movement – If moving the affected limb is unbearable, or you physically cannot move it, a fracture is likely.
• A popping or cracking sound – Many people hear a loud “snap” or “pop” at the time of injury, which could indicate a break.

Even if a fracture isn’t immediately obvious, pain that persists or worsens over time should not be ignored. Hairline fractures may not cause extreme pain at first, but they can become more severe if left untreated.

Signs That It Might Just Be a Sprain

A sprain can still be painful, but unlike fractures, they do not involve broken bones. These injuries can range from mild (a small overstretch) to severe (a complete ligament tear). Here’s what to look for:

• Pain with movement but not complete immobility – Sprains can make it painful to move the joint, but they rarely cause total loss of movement.
• Swelling and tenderness – The affected joint may swell, but it typically improves with rest, ice, and compression.
• No obvious deformity – While severe sprains can cause swelling that makes the joint look larger, the bone itself remains intact.
• Gradual improvement – A sprain should start feeling better with proper care, whereas a fracture will continue to hurt or worsen.

Severe sprains, however, can sometimes be just as debilitating as fractures, and in some cases, may even require imaging to rule out a break. If the swelling is extreme or you cannot bear weight on the joint, an X-ray is recommended.

Common Injury Locations That May Require an X-Ray

Ankle and Foot Injuries

Twisting an ankle or foot can result in either a sprain or a fracture. If you can’t bear weight on it without intense pain, an X-ray is the best way to determine whether you’ve suffered a break. Stress fractures in the foot are also common in runners and athletes.

Wrist and Hand Injuries

Falling on an outstretched hand can easily lead to a wrist fracture. Pain, swelling, and difficulty moving fingers may indicate the need for an X-ray. Fractures in the small bones of the hand, including the scaphoid bone, can be difficult to detect without imaging.

Knee Injuries

While most knee injuries involve ligament damage (like an ACL tear), direct impact can result in a fracture. If you have difficulty bending your knee or experience intense swelling, an X-ray can determine if there’s a break.

Collarbone and Shoulder Injuries

The collarbone is one of the most commonly fractured bones, especially in falls and sports accidents. If you notice a bump or swelling along the collarbone, an X-ray is recommended to assess the damage.

Why Getting an X-Ray Matters

Many people try to “walk it off” or wait out an injury, assuming it will heal on its own. However, fractures that go untreated can lead to permanent complications, including:

• Improper healing – Bones that don’t heal correctly can cause long-term pain and mobility issues.
• Chronic pain – Lingering pain from an untreated break can impact daily activities.
• Increased risk of re-injury – A weak, improperly healed bone is more likely to break again.
• Joint instability – Some fractures near joints can cause long-term instability and arthritis.

Getting an urgent care X-ray for fractures in Carrollwood ensures you receive the proper diagnosis and treatment plan for the best recovery.

Where to Get an X-Ray for a Suspected Fracture in Carrollwood

If you suspect a fracture or have a severe sprain that isn’t improving, TGH Urgent Care powered by Fast Track offers fast, high-quality urgent care X-rays for fractures in Carrollwood. Our Carrollwood Urgent Care center, located at 4505 Gunn Highway, Tampa, FL 33624, provides comprehensive imaging services and expert evaluation to determine the best course of treatment.

We are conveniently located near Carrollwood Village Park, Publix at Carrollwood Square, and the Original Carrollwood Shopping Center, making it easy to access care when you need it most. Our experienced team can assess your injury, provide on-site X-rays, and ensure you receive the right treatment—whether it’s a splint, a cast, or a referral for specialized care.

TGH Urgent Care powered by Fast Track: Convenient and Reliable Injury Care

At TGH Urgent Care powered by Fast Track, we understand that injuries don’t happen on a schedule. That’s why we offer 20 locations throughout the Greater Tampa Area, providing fast and convenient care for fractures, sprains, and other urgent medical needs.

Our Save My Spot e-Check-in system allows patients to fill out forms electronically for an expedited check-in process, minimizing wait times and getting you seen quickly.

We’re open 7 days a week from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. If you’re dealing with an injury and need an X-ray, visit TGH Urgent Care powered by Fast Track today for fast, expert care.