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
Is any of this happening now?
Call 911
Call emergency services after a major injury if the hip or leg looks deformed, you cannot move safely, or the foot becomes cold, pale, blue, or numb.
Do not try to straighten a visibly deformed leg.
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
Is any of this happening?
Be seen today
Seek same-day medical care if you have:
Fever or feel unwell with a hot, swollen, or very painful hip
Sudden severe pain or an unexpected inability to bear weight
Significant pain after a fall, especially with fragile bones
Rapidly increasing swelling, redness, or loss of movement
And for anyone, someone who:
has abdominal pain that is severe, constant, or getting worse
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Arrange a routine appointment if pain lasts longer than about two weeks despite self-care, keeps returning, interrupts sleep, or limits walking and daily activities.
Also book an appointment for ongoing stiffness, a persistent limp, or pain that is gradually becoming more troublesome.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Hip pain in adults. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.