Acute Posttraumatic Pubic Symphysis Instability in an Athlete

Abstract

In brief: A 16-year-old high school football player and wrestler began experiencing groin and pubic pain, and a popping sensation with abduction movements, after sustaining an abduction injury to his lower extremities. Stress roentgenographs revealed instability of the pubic symphysis; there was no evidence of fracture or gross instability of the sacroiliac joints or the posterior sacrum. The patient was treated conservatively for one year, with an initial period of limited weight-bearing and rest followed by progressive stretching and strengthening exercises and a gradual return to full sports activity.