Which clinical sign is commonly associated with a hip fracture?

• A. External rotation and shortening of the affected limb
• B. Flexed knee and ankle swelling
• C. Pain only when moving the opposite leg
• D. Bright red swelling on the forearm

Answer: (A)

Limb position is the key clue in this scenario. A hip fracture commonly causes the affected leg to lie in external rotation and appear shortened. The femoral neck or intertrochanteric region breaks, and the surrounding muscles pull the leg into external rotation while the fractured segment settles in a position that makes the limb seem shorter relative to the other leg. This combination—pain in the hip or groin with inability to bear weight, plus shortening and external rotation of the leg—is classic for a hip fracture. The other signs described (knee or ankle swelling, pain only when moving the opposite leg, or forearm swelling) don’t fit a hip fracture pattern and point to problems elsewhere. In the field, immobilize the leg in the position found, avoid trying to realign, pad for comfort, and transport promptly while monitoring neurovascular status.