How Long Should a Pelvic Brace Be Worn After Injury?

Duration of use for pelvic support belts?

My daughter was in a car accident, resulting in a fractured pelvis.
She has been undergoing conservative treatment for two months and is able to stand and walk.
The doctor has said that her recovery is going well.
However, she has been using a pelvic brace continuously since the start of her treatment, only removing it for bathing.
How long should she continue to use the pelvic brace before she can stop? Will prolonged use have any negative effects? Thank you for your response.

frank, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/09/26

Dr. Li Yongheng reply Orthopedics

Hello, the pelvic fracture has been treated conservatively for two months.
Now, it is no longer necessary to use the pelvic brace.
Continued use is unnecessary and can cause inconvenience in the patient's daily life.

Reply Date: 2019/09/26

More Info

After a pelvic injury, the duration for which a pelvic brace should be worn can vary significantly based on the severity of the injury, the specific type of fracture, and the individual’s healing progress. In your daughter’s case, where she has been using a pelvic brace for two months following a fracture and is reportedly recovering well, it’s essential to consider a few key factors before deciding to discontinue its use.

Typically, a pelvic brace is recommended to provide stability and support to the pelvis during the healing process. The brace helps to limit movement, which can prevent further injury and promote proper alignment as the bones heal. In general, the duration for wearing a pelvic brace can range from several weeks to a few months, depending on the specific circumstances of the injury.
Since your daughter has been using the brace for two months and is able to stand and walk, this is a positive sign of recovery. However, it is crucial to follow the guidance of her healthcare provider. They will assess her healing through physical examinations and possibly imaging studies, such as X-rays, to determine if the bones have healed sufficiently to allow for the removal of the brace.

Regarding the potential negative effects of prolonged brace use, it is important to note that while a brace can provide necessary support, extended use without appropriate rehabilitation can lead to muscle weakness and stiffness. The muscles around the pelvis may become deconditioned if they are not engaged in regular activity. Therefore, once the doctor gives the green light to discontinue the brace, it is advisable to begin a rehabilitation program that includes physical therapy. This will help to strengthen the muscles, improve flexibility, and restore normal function.

In summary, the decision to stop using the pelvic brace should be made in consultation with your daughter’s healthcare provider, who can evaluate her specific situation. If she continues to show improvement and her doctor feels confident in her recovery, she may be able to transition away from the brace soon. However, it is essential to follow up with a structured rehabilitation program to ensure a full recovery and to prevent any long-term complications.
In conclusion, while the brace is a critical component of the healing process, it is equally important to balance its use with active rehabilitation to promote overall recovery and prevent muscle atrophy. Always consult with her healthcare provider for personalized advice tailored to her specific condition and recovery progress.

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