A comprehensive clinical examination is the basis for selecting further diagnostic steps:
- General physical examination – including blood pressure, pulse, body weight, height; further:
- Inspection (viewing).
- Soft tissue damage: bruise marks, hematoma (bruise), abrasion, sores in fracture area (open fracture)
- Malposition
- Previous damage, scars
- Palpation (palpation), as far as possible.
- If necessary, as far as possible, functional tests
- Checking the vascular status (circulatory disorders?), motor function and sensitivity.
- Examination for additional concomitant injuries
- Inspection (viewing).
