Pelvic Fracture

The pelvis is a ring-shaped structure located at the base of the spine that connects the upper body to the legs. It is made up of several bones that work together to support body weight, protect internal organs, and provide stability during movement.

Because the pelvis plays such an important role in standing, walking, and balance, a fracture can significantly affect mobility and daily activities. At Fox Valley Orthopedics, we provide personalized treatment plans designed to restore stability, reduce pain, and promote a successful recovery.

What Is a Pelvic Fracture?

A pelvic fracture is a break in one or more of the bones that make up the pelvis.

Depending on the injury, a fracture may involve:

The pelvic ring
The pubic bones
The iliac bones
The sacrum
The acetabulum (hip socket)
Multiple bones simultaneously

Pelvic fractures vary in severity and may be classified as stable or unstable depending on how much the bones have shifted and whether the pelvic ring remains intact.

What Types of Pelvic Fractures Are There?

Several different fracture patterns can affect the pelvis.

Stable Pelvic Fractures

Stable fractures involve a single break in the pelvis and generally maintain normal alignment. These injuries often heal without surgery.

Unstable Pelvic Fractures

Unstable fractures involve multiple breaks or significant displacement that affects the stability of the pelvic ring.

Acetabular Fractures

Acetabular fractures affect the socket portion of the hip joint and may interfere with normal hip movement and long-term joint health.

Stress Fractures

Pelvic stress fractures develop gradually due to repetitive stress, overuse, or weakened bone rather than a single traumatic injury.

What Causes a Pelvic Fracture?

Pelvic fractures can occur from both high-energy trauma and lower-energy injuries.

Common causes include:

- Falls
- Motor vehicle accidents
- Sports injuries

Workplace injuries
Direct trauma to the hip or pelvis
Crush injuries
Osteoporosis
Repetitive stress activities

In younger patients, pelvic fractures often result from significant trauma. In older adults, fractures may occur after relatively minor falls due to decreased bone density.

What Are the Symptoms of a Pelvic Fracture?

Symptoms depend on the location and severity of the fracture.

Common signs and symptoms include:

Hip pain
Groin pain
Pelvic pain
Buttock pain
Swelling
Bruising
Difficulty walking
Pain with weight-bearing
Reduced range of motion
Tenderness around the pelvis
Difficulty standing

More severe injuries may cause significant instability and an inability to bear weight.

How Is a Pelvic Fracture Diagnosed?

Diagnosing a pelvic fracture begins with a comprehensive orthopedic evaluation.

Diagnostic evaluation may include:

- Review of symptoms and injury history
- Physical examination
- Assessment of walking ability
- Evaluation of hip and pelvic stability
- X-rays
- CT scans

MRI imaging when appropriate

Advanced imaging helps determine the location, severity, and stability of the fracture while identifying any associated injuries.

How Is a Pelvic Fracture Treated?

Treatment depends on the type of fracture, its severity, and the patient’s overall health.

What Nonsurgical Treatments Are Available for Pelvic Fractures?

Many stable pelvic fractures can heal successfully without surgery.

Nonsurgical treatment options may include:

Activity modification
Protected weight-bearing
Use of crutches or a walker
Pain management
Physical therapy
Mobility training
Bone health management

The goal is to allow the fracture to heal while gradually restoring strength and mobility.

When Is Surgery Recommended for a Pelvic Fracture?

Surgery may be recommended when:

The fracture is unstable
Significant displacement is present
Multiple fractures exist
The hip socket is involved
Alignment cannot be maintained
Mobility is severely compromised

Surgical options may include:

Open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF)
Plates and screws
Pelvic stabilization procedures
Acetabular fracture reconstruction

The specific treatment approach depends on the fracture pattern and the patient’s individual needs.

What Does Pelvic Fracture Recovery Look Like?

At Fox Valley Orthopedics, recovery depends on the severity of the fracture and the treatment performed.

Many patients require a period of limited weight-bearing followed by progressive rehabilitation.

Recovery often includes:

Use of assistive walking devices
Physical therapy
Range-of-motion exercises
Strengthening programs
Balance training
Gait retraining
Gradual return to daily activities

Following the prescribed rehabilitation plan is important for restoring mobility and minimizing long-term complications.

What Complications Can Occur if a Pelvic Fracture Is Left Untreated?

Without proper treatment, pelvic fractures may lead to lasting problems.

Potential complications include:

Chronic pain
Difficulty walking
Improper bone healing
Hip dysfunction
Reduced mobility
Arthritis
Persistent weakness
Balance problems
Loss of independence

Early diagnosis and treatment can help improve healing and long-term outcomes.

Get Expert Hip Dislocation Care at Fox Valley Orthopedics

A pelvic fracture can significantly affect your ability to walk, work, exercise, and perform everyday activities. At Fox Valley Orthopedics, our experienced specialists provide comprehensive care for pelvic fractures, including advanced diagnostics, fracture management, rehabilitation programs, and surgical treatment when necessary.

Whether your treatment involves protected weight-bearing, physical therapy, fracture stabilization, or surgery, our team is committed to helping you regain comfort, mobility, and confidence. If you’ve suffered a pelvic injury or are experiencing symptoms of a pelvic fracture, schedule an appointment with Fox Valley Orthopedics today by calling (855) 386-7846 to discuss your treatment options and take the first step toward recovery.