Causes of the Broken Pelvis
- Vehicle accidents
- Slip and fall
These are generally the two most common causes of the pelvic fracture, while there can be others. This is an injury that the aging adult is susceptible to, because bones weaken with age and especially with osteoporosis. Falling on a slippery surface, stars, or an uneven surface, can cause a slip and fall that can result in a pelvic fracture. Growing teenagers are also at risk, there are some injuries including pulled muscles that can result in a specific type of pelvic fracture.
Symptoms of a Fractured Pelvis
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Pain
- The urge to adjust the knee or hip
- There are other symptoms that may not be as clear due to other injuries including shock.
Pelvic Fracture and Diagnosis
During the physical examination, a physician will check the nerves and blood vessels in the legs when diagnosing a pelvic fracture. The doctor will order x-rays and a possible CT scan in order to see the severity of the pelvic break.
When the pelvis is fractured the usual treatment is surgery, to help realign the bones, cartilage and to remove any lose bone debris from the area, restoring stability to the pelvis. This might include screws and other stabilizing plates; traction might be needed after the surgery.
When the fractured pelvis is not severe and still aligned, the physician will prescribe pain medication, a walker or crutches, without the need to perform surgery.
Prognosis for the Fractured Pelvis
The fractured pelvis can heal properly with the right medical treatment, although limping can be a problem for months. Nerve damage, pain and other symptoms can be a recurring problem depending on the severity of the broken pelvis.
General Information About These Fractures
The pelvis is a group of bones that form a ring at the bottom of the back, and consist of the illium, ischium and pubis. The three bones are connected by ligaments, and then to the sacrum this is a triangle shaped bone at the base of the spine. These bones make a bowl shape with the hip sockets located on the sides.
Inside of the bowl shape the bones make are the reproductive organs and digestive organs and the large blood vessels from the legs, their muscle and tendons connect through the pelvis. This is why the pelvic fracture can be an extremely dangerous injury, since it can cause organ damage, nerve damage and severe internal bleeding.
Retaining a Pelvic Fracture Lawyer
When you or a family member have suffered the sadness of a fractured pelvis in a California vehicle, or other negligent fact pattern, the Ehline Law Firm will help you establish if you have a claim by contacting 1-888-400-9721. We will even make hospital visits when necessary.