It is not normal practice to X-ray limbs where a medical examination indicates a sprain or a bruise (too many X-rays are a risk). Certain injuries, including some minor fractures, do not require X-rays for correct treatment.
It is expected your sprain or bruise will have noticeably improved over the next 48 hours. You may take paracetamol or prescribed painkillers as necessary. Sprains and strains will always appear more stiff/painful the next day, but improve with gentle movement.
If the pain is getting worse and not settling, please return to allow us to re-assess your injury, and the decision to X-ray may be considered. Please remember, severe sprains and bruises can be as painful as broken or cracked bones.
X-ray facilities overnight are confined to life/death situations and broken bones, where there is an obvious deformity. So you may be asked to return the next day for a less urgent X-ray.
If you are in doubt, the doctor or nurse will be pleased to advise you.
Contact us
Emergency Department - 01935 384 355
