Pelvis/Hip Case 7 History/Physical Exam

Occult Hip Fracture

Patients in the previously mentioned populations with complaints of pain with ambulation even after minimal trauma, tenderness to palpation of the hip, and pain with range of motion should be further evaluated for an occult fracture if initial x rays are negative and no other diagnosis is apparent.

Of note, particularly the elderly and/or cognitively impaired may have normal ambulation and complain only of vague pain in their buttocks, knees, thighs, groin, or back. Suspicion still must remain high.