Table of Contents
How do you describe a pelvic fracture?
A pelvic fracture is usually diagnosed by the presence of bone tenderness, difficulty walking or doing other movements and any loss of nerve function in the lower part of the body. There may be injuries to organs within the pelvic ring such as the intestines, kidneys, bladder or genitals.
What are the types of pelvic fracture?
Stable pelvic fracture patterns include:
- Types of stable pelvic fractures: (Left) Iliac wing fracture. (Right) Sacrum fracture.
- Superior and inferior pubic ramus fracture. Unstable fracture.
- Vertical shear fracture. In this fracture, one half of the pelvis shifts upward.
What are some signs and symptoms of a pelvic fracture?
What are the symptoms of stable pelvic fractures?
- Pain and tenderness in the groin, hip, lower back, buttock or pelvis.
- Bruising and swelling over the pelvic bones.
- Numbness or tingling in the genital area or in the upper thighs.
- Pain which may also be present on sitting and when having a bowel movement.
How do you diagnose a pelvic fracture?
Diagnostic Imaging
- X-rays. X-ray images use electromagnetic radiation to reveal the location of a fractured bone in the hip or pelvis.
- CT Scans. Your doctor may order a CT scan to examine a fracture pattern or assess the extent of damage in the hip joint.
- MRI Scans.
- Bone Scans.
Can you walk on a fractured pelvis?
With a broken pelvis you cannot walk, sit or move well without pain. The pelvis protects the bladder, intestines and many important blood vessels. Many of the important leg muscles and abdominal muscles attach to the pelvis and allow for body motion and function.
Do pelvic fractures heal themselves?
Most pelvic fractures heal on their own. The local tissues in the area of the fracture frequently keep the fracture pieces in order and the bones heal with a little rest and good nutrition.
What is the most common pelvic fracture?
The most common pelvic fracture is towards the front (the pubic bones), which occurs in older patients. These fractures are usually due to some thinning of the bones from osteoporosis.
Can you walk around with a broken pelvis?
How long does it take for a pelvic fracture to heal?
Pelvic fractures usually start to heal about four weeks after the fracture. Some patients may notice less pain as soon as a few days after a fracture, depending on the severity of the fracture, but most patients take pain medication for four to six weeks after the injury. In terms of activity, patients can be bedbound for days or up to a week.
What is the recovery time for a broken pelvis?
A broken pelvis will take about 6 to 12 weeks to heal. It can be painful to move for the first 3 to 4 weeks. Bed rest and pain medicine is the only treatment required. Stay in bed for the first 2 to 3 days to reduce pain with movement.
What are some symptoms of a fractured pelvic bone?
Pain
What is the recovery process for a broken pelvis?
Instead of the muscle tearing, a small piece of bone is pulled away from the pelvis. Depending on how much bone is involved, it may take approximately 6 weeks before you are ready to begin increasing your activity. This type of injury may also involve the use of crutches for 1-2 weeks as well.