Definition: An insufficiency fracture of the pelvis occurs when thin, weakened bone is trying to carry the normal load of the body. Because the bone is thin and weak from osteoporosis, it is prone to fracture. Pelvic insufficiency fractures are among the most common insufficiency fractures that occur in patients with osteoporosis. Often there is no significant fall, but patients often have significant difficulty walking or are unable to walk all together.
Most often patients will recover with a short course of bed rest, followed by physical therapy and progressive increase in walking. Patients may require inpatient hospitalization or nursing care to assist with their daily activities.
What are the symptoms of a pelvic insufficiency fracture?
Pelvic insufficiency fractures often mimic hip fractures. Common symptoms include:
- Groin or buttock pain
- Pain when attempting to walk
Most often patients will recover with a short course of bed rest, followed by physical therapy and progressive increase in walking. Patients may require inpatient hospitalization or nursing care to assist with their daily activities.
The focus of further treatment should be on the underlying cause of the fracture. Treatment of osteoporosis is difficult, but should be initiated in an effort to prevent other insufficiency fractures.
