Fractured Pelvis

A fractured pelvis most often occurs after severe trauma, such as a road traffic accident or a fall from a significant height. Pelvic fractures are generally classified as either stable—where the pelvic ring remains intact—or unstable, where the pelvic ring is disrupted and the fracture is displaced. Stable fractures may affect other bony structures such as the ischial tuberosity, ramus, or iliac without disturbing the pelvic ring, while unstable fractures can lead to serious complications including:

  • Damage to major nerves
  • Injury to internal organs such as the bladder, intestines, or urethra
  • Severe haemorrhage if surrounding blood vessels are affected

Common Symptoms of a Pelvic Fracture

  • History of major trauma (road accident or fall)
  • Signs of shock due to significant blood loss (hypovolaemic shock)
  • Severe abdominal or pelvic pain
  • Cold, clammy skin with sweating
  • Increased heart rate
  • Difficulty or inability to walk
  • Associated injuries or fractures in other areas

Treatment of Pelvic Fractures

The choice of treatment depends on the type and severity of the fracture:

  • Stable fractures are usually treated conservatively with bed rest, traction to realign bones, physiotherapy, and pain management.
  • Unstable fractures often require surgery. Most are managed with Open Reduction Internal Fixation (ORIF), where the bones are realigned and secured with plates, screws, or pins. In complex or multiple fractures, external fixators may be used to stabilise the pelvis.

Physiotherapy for Pelvic Fractures

At Ace Physio Sports, physiotherapy is an essential part of recovery from both stable and unstable pelvic fractures. Our specialists design individualised rehabilitation programmes focused on pain relief, swelling reduction, and progressive mobility restoration. Initial treatments may involve cryotherapy (ice), gentle elevation-based exercises, and pain management. Over time, therapy progresses to strength, flexibility, and functional training tailored to your personal recovery goals, helping you return safely to normal activity.

Physiotherapy for Stable Pelvic Fractures

Stable pelvic fractures are usually managed conservatively (without surgery), which means a structured physiotherapy programme at Ace Physio Sports can begin straight away. Early treatment helps maintain strength and mobility while preventing complications from prolonged bed rest. Rehabilitation may include:

  • Isometric (static) exercises to strengthen key hip muscles such as the gluteals, hamstrings, and quadriceps
  • Range of movement exercises for nearby joints like the knee, ankle, and foot to maintain mobility
  • Upper limb activity to keep overall body strength and circulation active
  • Soft tissue techniques such as massage and friction therapy to ease tightness caused by immobility
  • Hydrotherapy sessions to gently improve movement and reduce muscle spasms

After approximately 4–6 weeks, patients can usually progress to weight-bearing activities such as walking and stair climbing, using the most suitable walking aid (e.g., crutches or a zimmer frame) for safe recovery.

Physiotherapy for Unstable Pelvic Fractures

Unstable pelvic fractures typically require surgery, making rehabilitation more gradual and long-term. At Ace Physio Sports, our physiotherapists create tailored recovery programmes that progress step by step to suit the severity of your injury and your personal goals. Initial stages focus on pain management, safe mobility, and protecting the surgical repair, followed by gradual strengthening, flexibility, and functional training to restore independence.

Weeks 1–2

In the early stage of recovery, your physiotherapy programme at Ace Physio Sports will focus on reducing pain and swelling while maintaining mobility in unaffected areas. Typical treatments may include:

  • Cryotherapy (ice therapy) and elevation exercises to control swelling
  • Gentle range of movement exercises for unaffected joints
  • Basic strengthening for surrounding muscles
  • Soft tissue massage to ease tightness from immobility
  • Pain management techniques

Weeks 3–6

As healing progresses, you may be able to start partial weight-bearing under the close supervision of your physiotherapist. At this stage, treatment may involve:

  • Gradual strengthening and mobility exercises around the pelvic area
  • Gait re-education (walking retraining), often using parallel bars for support
  • Upper limb strengthening and light cardiovascular activity to maintain fitness
  • Continued massage and soft tissue therapy
  • Ongoing pain and swelling control
  • Progression to stair climbing where appropriate

Weeks 7–12

By this stage, most patients are fully weight-bearing and able to walk longer distances with reduced discomfort. Rehabilitation now focuses on returning to work, hobbies, and daily activities. Your physiotherapist at Ace Physio Sports will guide you through:

  • Advanced strengthening and flexibility exercises
  • Functional activities tailored to your lifestyle
  • Balance and coordination training
  • Gradual return to normal routines and active living

Summary

Pelvic fractures are usually the result of high-impact trauma, such as a road traffic accident or a fall from height. These injuries are classified as either stable, where the pelvic ring remains intact, or unstable, where the ring is disrupted. Regardless of the type, physiotherapy plays a vital role in achieving a safe and effective recovery. At Ace Physio Sports, our specialist physiotherapists create tailored rehabilitation programmes designed around your individual goals, helping to restore mobility, reduce pain, and optimise long-term function.

To arrange an assessment with AcephysioSports.com, please contact us or call +65 8153 5374. Alternatively, you can book an appointment online today!

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