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Warning-sign checks

Bone pain or tenderness: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Seek emergency help after a serious injury if a limb looks bent or out of place, bone is visible through a wound, bleeding will not stop, or the area beyond the injury becomes pale, cold, numb, or weak.

    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Sudden severe pain with an inability to stand or use the limb also needs urgent assessment.

    Arrange same-day care if you have fever with a painful area over a bone that is red, warm, or swollen.

    Seek prompt care if pain is rapidly worsening, you feel seriously unwell, or a child will not use an arm or leg.

    And for anyone, someone who:

    • has abdominal pain that is severe, constant, or getting worse
  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Book a routine appointment if unexplained pain lasts several days, keeps returning, or gradually worsens.

    Also seek assessment if pain repeatedly wakes you, a lump or persistent swelling develops, or you have unexplained weight loss or marked tiredness.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Bone pain or tenderness. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.