Acute Posttraumatic Pubic Symphysis Instability in an Athlete

Area of Science:

• Sports Medicine
• Orthopedics
• Biomechanics

Background:

• Athletes, particularly those in high-impact sports like football and wrestling, are susceptible to groin and pubic pain.
• Abduction injuries can lead to significant musculoskeletal issues in the lower extremities and pelvic region.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the diagnosis and conservative management of pubic symphysis instability in a young athlete.
• To highlight the effectiveness of non-operative treatment for athletic pubic pain.

Main Methods:

• A case study of a 16-year-old male athlete presenting with groin and pubic pain after an abduction injury.
• Diagnostic imaging, including stress roentgenographs, to assess pubic symphysis and sacroiliac joint stability.
• A one-year conservative treatment protocol involving rest, progressive exercises, and gradual return to sport.

Main Results:

• Stress roentgenographs confirmed pubic symphysis instability without evidence of fracture or major sacroiliac joint disruption.
• The patient underwent a year of conservative management, including rest and physical therapy.
• The athlete successfully returned to full sports participation without recurrence of pain.

Conclusions:

• Pubic symphysis instability is a potential diagnosis for athletes experiencing groin and pubic pain after abduction injuries.
• Conservative management, encompassing rest, physical therapy, and a phased return to activity, can be effective in treating this condition in young athletes.