American Board of Surgical Assistants (ABSA) Orthopedic Practice Test

What is a common symptom of a hip fracture?

1. Swelling around the ankle

2. Pain in the thigh

3. Inability to walk

4. Pain felt in the groin or above the knee

The correct answer is: Pain felt in the groin or above the knee

A common symptom of a hip fracture is pain that is typically felt in the groin or above the knee. This pain pattern occurs due to the proximity of the hip joint to these areas, as the hip is a ball-and-socket joint that bears significant loads during normal activities like walking or standing. When a fracture occurs, it can lead to immediate and severe pain that radiates to the groin region, making movement particularly uncomfortable and often impossible without assistance. In addition to the pain, individuals with hip fractures may exhibit an inability to walk, which is also a consequence of the injury and pain, but the specific symptom directly related to the fracture itself is the pain in the groin or above the knee. It's important to recognize this symptom because it can aid in the early diagnosis and treatment of a hip fracture, which is critical for recovery.