Symptoms of a Broken Pelvis
Symptoms of a Broken Pelvis vary depending on the severity of the injury but generally include pain, swelling, and mobility problems. The most common symptoms of a broken pelvis include sharp hip or groin pain, bruising around the lower abdomen or back, difficulty standing or walking, and in severe cases, signs of internal bleeding or nerve damage. Recognising these signs early is critical for urgent care.
Pain is usually intense and localised around the hip, lower back, buttocks, or groin. The discomfort often worsens with movement, particularly when trying to stand, walk, or sit upright. Patients may instinctively hold their legs still or resist attempts to move the hips.
Bruising and swelling develop rapidly around the pelvis, lower abdomen, or thighs. In some cases, this bruising may extend to the scrotum, labia, or upper thighs, particularly in fractures involving blood vessel damage or pelvic instability.
Difficulty walking or bearing weight is one of the earliest and most alarming signs. Patients may be unable to stand without help, and even minor movements of the legs can be excruciating. Some may experience a sensation of “instability” in the pelvis when attempting to shift position.
Symptoms of a Broken Pelvis
In more severe cases, symptoms extend beyond pain. Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the legs may indicate nerve compression or damage. Internal bleeding may lead to signs of shock — including rapid heartbeat, dizziness, cold sweats, pale skin, or confusion.
Bleeding from the urethra, rectum, or vagina can occur if the fracture damages pelvic organs. This is a medical emergency and often requires immediate surgical intervention.
People with symptoms of a broken pelvis following trauma should never attempt to walk or move unaided. Emergency medical help should be called immediately, and spinal precautions should be taken until imaging confirms stability.
Identifying symptoms early increases the chance of proper alignment, prevents further injury, and improves long-term outcomes — especially in elderly patients and those with unstable fractures.
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