Does hip fracture cause hip pain?

A fracture may cause pain in the groin, outer hip, thigh, or sometimes the knee. Moving the leg, standing, or putting weight through it can make symptoms worse. Some people also have bruising, swelling, difficulty moving the hip, or a leg that looks shorter or turned outward. Pain severity and mobility can vary, so being able to move the leg does not rule out a fracture. A clinical examination and imaging are needed to identify the injury.

Avoid walking on the painful leg and keep movement to a minimum while arranging medical help. Do not try to straighten, pull, or force the hip into a different position. If safe, keep the person warm and supported, and tell the medical team how the injury happened, when pain began, and whether medicines or other health conditions may affect treatment.

Suspected hip fracture needs urgent medical assessment, especially after a fall or direct impact with new pain or difficulty bearing weight. Seek emergency help if the leg is shortened or rotated, pain is severe, the person becomes faint or confused, or the foot becomes numb, cold, or unusually pale. Do not delay assessment because the pain seems manageable.

Ask which imaging is needed, whether the fracture affects the joint or nearby bone, and what treatment is recommended. Discuss pain relief, movement restrictions, prevention of another fall, and how rehabilitation will be planned after the hip is stabilised.