Pelvic Avulsion Fracture

Pelvic avulsion strain fracture

A pelvic avulsion fracture is where the tendon comes away from the bone, often taking a piece of bone with it. This most commonly occurs at the ischial tuberosity where the hamstrings attach, or the iliac spine, at the front where the thigh attaches. Pain can be caused by explosive movements, and the location of the pain indicates what kind of avulsion fracture it is.

Symptoms of a Pelvic Avulsion Fracture

  • Symptoms include sudden pain during a powerful, explosive movement.
  • Pain at the back of the pelvis in the crease of the buttock may be an ischial tuberosity avulsion fracture.
  • Pain at the bony part on the front of the hip may be an anterior superior iliac spine avulsion fracture.
  • The athlete will feel weakness and pain when doing certain movements which place a load on the affected tendon.
  • Bruising and swelling are likely.
Advert
Reflective running gear and vests

Cold Therapy Wraps

UPMedical.co.uk (UK)

Amazon.com (USA)

Treatment

  • If this injury is suspected, seek medical attention as soon as possible.
  • Rest the area as much as possible.
  • Apply ice regularly for the first 2-3 days to ease pain and inflammation.
  • An X-ray will help confirm the diagnosis.
  • Generally, the treatment for a pelvic avulsion fracture is rest. They tend to heal on their own in 4-6 weeks.
  • In some cases, surgery may be performed to re-attach the bone and tendon to the pelvis. This is mainly reserved for large fractures where the fracture is displaced considerably.
  • Following the rest period, a gradual rehabilitation programme can be commenced which aims to regain full strength and movement at the hip.
Scroll to Top