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
Call emergency services after a major injury if a limb looks deformed, becomes pale or cold, or feels numb.
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 assessment sooner if you have risk factors such as previous joint trauma, prolonged corticosteroid treatment, sickle cell disease, or heavy alcohol use.
Contact your healthcare team promptly if known osteonecrosis suddenly becomes more painful or you develop a new limp.
A noticeable loss of movement also needs review because it may indicate progression.
Seek urgent medical care if you:
Suddenly cannot stand or bear weight
Develop severe joint pain after a fall or other injury
Have a joint that becomes hot, red, swollen, and very painful
Have fever with severe joint pain
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Arrange a routine appointment if you have joint pain that persists, repeatedly returns, or limits movement.
These signs may indicate a fracture, dislocation, or loss of circulation rather than routine progression of osteonecrosis.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Osteonecrosis. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.