History/Physical Exam

As with any extremity injury, note the external appearance for swelling or deformity, palpate for tenderness, check neurovascular status, and assess range of motion and weightbearing status when appropriate. If a suspected malignant lesion is detected radiographically, go back and obtain relevant history that would be concerning for malignancy such as:

• Pain that is worse at night 
• A growing lump or mass prior to the injury
• Red flag constitutional signs such as fever, chills, night sweats, weight loss, anorexia, fatigue