As a resident of Toledo, Ohio, you may try to stay as safe as possible, but accidents happen. Unfortunately, some accidents such as slip and fall can result in a serious personal injury like pelvic fractures, especially for older people. You should know a few things about pelvic fractures if you have been diagnosed with this injury.
What is a pelvic fracture?
A pelvic fracture affects the bones that sit at the base of the spine. Your hips are situated on either side of the group of bones that make up the pelvis. Older people are especially susceptible to this type of personal injury.
Although pelvic fractures are rare, the injury can be life-threatening in severe cases if internal organs have been affected. Usually, a person who suffers this type of injury requires surgery, physical therapy and rehab. There are two types of pelvic fractures. They include the following:
- Stable: A stable pelvic fracture involves only one break with limited bleeding and bones that remain in place.
- Unstable: An unstable pelvic fracture involves two or more breaks with moderate or severe bleeding.
What can cause a pelvic fracture?
Pelvic fractures can be caused by falls, especially those from great heights. However, they are more commonly caused by accidents involving high rates of speed such as car accidents or motorcycle crashes. Seniors are more susceptible to a personal injury involving a pelvic fracture if they have osteoporosis, which causes their bones to become weaker.
What are the symptoms of a pelvic fracture?
Pelvic fractures can manifest through a variety of symptoms. The most common symptoms include the following:
- Pain in the hip, groin or lower back
- Numbness or tingling in the legs or groin
- Abdominal pain
- Difficulty standing or walking
- Difficulty urinating
- Vaginal, urethral or rectal bleeding
If you have suffered a pelvic fracture, you must get immediate medical treatment. Depending on the severity of your injury, it could be life-threatening. You should also file a personal injury claim to recover the damages you are due.