Diagnosing fractures in the paediatric population is a problematical process for which there are currently no accepted clinical criteria. We studied the physical signs sought by accident and emergency staff in 126 children with suspected fractures. We found a significant correlation between 'point tenderness' and fracture, as demonstrated by plain radiograph. 'Swelling' and 'redness' approached significance. These results correlate well with previous work in this area, but further research using a larger sample is required as confirmation.