Pelvis/Hip Case 12 History/Physical Exam

VS injuries occur from high mechanism forces that apply an axial load through the legs or spine, typically an MVC or fall from a height.

Patients may be hemodynamically unstable.

On exam, patients will have significant pain with movement and palpation. Look for leg length discrepancy.  The stability of the pelvis can be assessed by compressing both iliac crests medially. This will elicit pain and the examiner may feel pelvic motion if unstable.

It is not recommended to vigorously "rock" on the pelvis, compress posteriorly (which will open the pelvis further), or to perform repeat exams.