The most common fracture after a fall is a distal radius fracture (wrist fracture). This typically occurs during a FOOSH injury, a Fall On an Outstretched Hand, as the body instinctively tries to break its momentum. Other frequent fractures include the clavicle (collarbone), ankle, and hip.
However, the severity and location of a fracture often depend on the mechanics of the fall and the patient’s bone density. At Sahara West Urgent Care, our medical team provides rapid evaluation for fall-related injuries to prevent improper healing and long-term joint stiffness.
Common Fractures Resulting from a Fall
Falls can lead to various orthopedic injuries depending on how you land:
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Wrist Fractures (Distal Radius): The single most frequent injury when reaching out to stop a fall.
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Collarbone (Clavicle) Fractures: Common in side-impact falls or direct shoulder contact with the ground.
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Hip Fractures: High prevalence among older adults, often requiring immediate surgical consultation.
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Ankle and Foot Fractures: Frequently caused by tripping or “rolling” the ankle during a stumble.
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Compression Fractures: Impact to the spine that can occur during a hard fall onto the buttocks.
The Diagnostic Process: Why Professional Imaging is Required
You cannot always tell if a bone is broken just by the level of pain. Some minor fractures feel like “bad sprains,” while some sprains can be more debilitating than a break. To ensure an accurate diagnosis, our medical team at this X-ray clinic in Las Vegas performs:
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Digital X-Rays: On-site imaging to identify the exact location and type of break (hairline, displaced, or comminuted).
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Physical Evaluation: Checking for swelling, bruising, and neurovascular integrity (nerve and blood flow).
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Injury Stabilization: Applying immediate splinting or bracing to prevent further displacement before a permanent cast or specialist referral.
Why Choose Sahara West Urgent Care for Fall Injuries?
While an Emergency Room is necessary for life-threatening trauma, Sahara West Urgent Care offers a faster, more cost-effective solution for most fall-related fractures. We provide on-site diagnostics and professional stabilization without the long wait times of a hospital. Our providers follow evidence-based protocols to ensure you receive the right level of care immediately.
Did you experience a fall and feel localized pain or swelling? Book your visit online or walk in today for expert medical care and high-quality imaging to start your recovery.
