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
Is any of this happening now?
Call 911
Seek emergency help after an injury if the joint or limb is visibly deformed, bone is exposed, bleeding is severe, or the limb becomes cold, pale, blue, or numb.
These signs can indicate a serious injury or reduced blood flow.
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
Is any of this happening?
Be seen today
Seek urgent medical assessment if:
A joint suddenly becomes hot, red, very swollen, or intensely painful
Joint symptoms occur with fever or feeling seriously unwell
You suddenly cannot put weight on a joint
Severe pain follows a significant injury
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Arrange a routine appointment if joint pain or stiffness lasts for several weeks, keeps returning, affects sleep, or limits everyday activities.
Assessment is also appropriate if a joint is giving way, symptoms are changing quickly, or you are relying often on pain medicines.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Osteoarthritis. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.