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Warning-sign checks

Hip fracture: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Call emergency services after a fall or injury if you have severe hip or groin pain, cannot stand, or the leg looks shortened or turned outward.

    Do not try to test the injury by walking.

    Keep still and warm while waiting for help, unless remaining where you are would be dangerous.

    Sudden breathlessness, chest pain, coughing up blood, fainting, or severe new confusion requires emergency help.

    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Seek urgent same-day assessment if pain continues after a fall even though you can walk, especially if the pain is in the groin or becomes worse when you put weight on the leg.

    A hidden fracture may not cause obvious deformity.

    After surgery, seek urgent medical advice for increasing wound redness, drainage, fever, worsening pain, or new calf swelling.

    Contact the rehabilitation or surgical team sooner if you suddenly lose function after making progress.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Routine follow-up is appropriate for questions about exercises, walking aids, ongoing mild pain, osteoporosis treatment, or a gradual recovery that is slower than expected.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Hip fracture. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.