What’s the Difference Between Chronic and Acute Pain?

It can be confusing to know when to seek out professional help for an orthopedic issue. Perhaps you suffer from a rolled ankle after taking a dog for a walk, or you are a former athlete who lives with general soreness throughout your everyday life. Though these types of injuries are different, they often share a similar element: both people want to feel better. No one wants to live with pain. Pain can sneak up on you, or it can be experienced during a specific activity. Whether you suffer from chronic or acute pain, MCO's team of dedicated professionals are here to help heal you.

If you live with pain, how do you know when to see a physician? The answer to this question is found by first determining what kind of pain you are experiencing. Have you been dealing with foot, ankle, shoulder, hand, wrist, knee, or hip pain for months or even years? This would be considered chronic pain. Often, long-standing issues with the back, knees, or hips are considered chronic pain unless the injury occurred during recent activity. When you live with chronic pain, it is best to schedule an appointment with one of our specialists. Our orthopedic experts will work with you to determine the best course of action and lead you on your path to recovery.

What if you are actively engaged in an activity and sustain a sudden injury such as a twist, tear, sprain, or break? This injury is considered acute and should be cared for within a minimum of 24-48 hours after the injury occurred. If you find yourself in this category of pain, our Walk-In Ortho Care Clinic is here for you! Open Monday - Thursday 8 AM - 11 AM and 1 PM - 5 PM, on Fridays from 8 AM – 11 AM, the Walk-In Ortho Care Clinic a convenient care option where patients can be seen the same day that they sustained their injury. The clinic is an urgent care service devoted exclusively to the treatment of sudden orthopedic injuries such as sprains, strains, fractures, sports-related injuries, and other minor orthopedic injuries or problems.

Though no appointment is needed to be seen in the Walk-In Ortho Care Clinic, we recommend calling (309) 663-6461 when you are on your way so we can book you for a same-day appointment to minimize your wait time.

You don't have to live in pain! Schedule an appointment online or by phone at 309-663-6461, or visit the Walk-In Ortho Care Clinic today!