In hip fracture evaluation, which statement is true?

In hip fracture evaluation, which statement is true?

• A. External rotation and shortening of the leg is a common finding
• B. The leg will always be perfectly straight
• C. There is no pain
• D. The patient can bear weight without pain

Answer: (A)

External rotation and shortening of the leg are typical signs of a hip fracture. When the femoral neck or intertrochanteric region is fractured, the muscles around the hip pull the leg into external rotation, and the fracture fragments shift so the limb appears shorter. This combination is a classic clue during examination. Pain is usually significant, and bearing weight is painful or impossible, which helps explain why the other statements aren’t accurate.

External rotation and shortening of the leg are typical signs of a hip fracture. When the femoral neck or intertrochanteric region is fractured, the muscles around the hip pull the leg into external rotation, and the fracture fragments shift so the limb appears shorter. This combination is a classic clue during examination. Pain is usually significant, and bearing weight is painful or impossible, which helps explain why the other statements aren’t accurate.