Sacral fractures are found in the sacrum is a triangle-shaped bone located at the base of the spine and attached to the pelvis. Fractures usually occur because of high energy accidents and falls. These are generally easily found on X-rays and CT scans at the time of the accident. Stress fractures of the sacrum are caused by repetitive movement and therefore can be found in frequent runners or exercisers.
Elderly, with weaker bones, are also vulnerable to this fracture. Symptoms include pain in the low back or buttocks. Pain also may be present in the groin area and on the front portion of the thigh. A sacral fracture can be difficult to determine even on an MRI scan, so it is important to visit a doctor who specializes in pelvic injuries when seeking a diagnosis. A bone scan, CT scan, MRI, and x-rays may be necessary in diagnosing the injury.
Treatment for a sacral fracture will depend on the specific kind of fracture the patient has. Those caused by impact or trauma will most often need to be stabilized with plates and screws in surgery. Mild sacral fractures that were caused by repetitive, increased activity can often be healed simply with rest and by refraining from physical activity.
In such cases, pain medication may be given to allow the patient to return to daily functions as soon as possible. The patient can return to exercise after a period of about a month, but only in a gradual manner. Once the fracture is healed, physical therapy may be necessary to help the patient regain flexibility.