Pelvis/Hip Case 11 History/Physical Exam

History is typically a head-on impact, usually an MVC.  

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.