A pelvic fracture is a break of the bony structure of the pelvis. This includes any break of the sacrum, hip bones (ischium, pubis, ilium), or tailbone. Symptoms include pain, particularly with movement. Complications may include internal bleeding, injury to the bladder, or vaginal trauma.

What causes pelvic trauma?

Pelvic injuries are usually caused by significant trauma, such as road traffic collisions, falls from height or a crush injury. Due to the location of the pelvis, injuries to other structures, such as major blood vessels, the bladder and/or the bowel may occur.

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.

Can you walk with a broken pelvis?

A broken pelvis may need a few months to heal. You may have had surgery to repair your pelvis, depending on where it was broken and how bad the break was. ... While your pelvis heals, you will need to keep weight off the hips. Once you are able to walk, a walker or crutches can help you get around.

What happens if your pelvis is crushed?

Life-Threatening Injuries:

This injury results in tears of the strong pelvic ligaments that hold the pelvis bones together. ... Lateral crush injury: Like the other two fractures, half of the pelvis is crushed either inward or outward, again, resulting in damage to surrounding vessels and structures.