History and exam
Key diagnostic factors
common
inability to bear weight
Patient feels pain in the groin and hip often precluding weight-bearing.
The leg is not able to mechanically support body weight if the fracture is displaced.
pain in affected leg/hip
Pain is generally global around the groin and region of the greater trochanter. It can also radiate distally down the femur or up to the pelvis.
pain with hip movement
Pain in the groin or proximal femur is often increased with internal or external rotation of the leg or flexion of the hip.
Crepitus may also be felt in the region of the femoral neck with range of motion of the hip.
Other diagnostic factors
common
shortened and externally rotated leg
May be present if hip fracture is displaced, but need to ensure there is no femoral shaft fracture, pelvic fracture, or tibia fracture.
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