Pelvic fractures are rare, and their severity can range from mild to severe. In many cases, states the Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, your pelvis may fracture, or break, in more than one place. Severe pelvic fractures are not only painful, but they may also involve organ damage, which can be life-threatening. Supplements may be a helpful adjunct therapy in recovering from a pelvic fracture. Ask your doctor if dietary supplements are right for you and your condition.
About Pelvic Fractures
Pelvic fractures, states the Hospital for Special Surgery, are one of the most serious health problems addressed by orthopedic surgeons. In many cases, pelvic fractures are caused by traumatic injuries, such as those sustained in a car accident or a serious fall. Although people of all ages are vulnerable to this type of injury, people with osteoporosis, or severely decreased bone mineral density, may develop pelvic fractures more often than others. Abdominal pain, numbness, vaginal bleeding and problems walking or standing are all possible symptoms of pelvic fractures.
Helpful Supplements
Certain dietary supplements may be particularly helpful in healing fractures or reducing the pain, inflammation and swelling commonly associated with these bone-related injuries. Phyllis A. Balch, a certified nutritional consultant and author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," reports that some of the most important fracture-healing supplements include proteolytic enzymes, calcium, magnesium, potassium and boron. Horse chestnut and comfrey may also be helpful in healing your pelvic fracture. Some of these supplements may require further study using clinical research methods.
A Potent Supplement
Comfrey may be one of the most potent dietary supplements in treating a pelvic fracture. Comfrey, also known as knitbone, has traditionally been used to help broken bones knit, or heal, faster, states naturopathic physician William A. Mitchell Jr., author of "Plant Medicine in Practice." Comfrey may help reduce swelling in the fractured area, and it possesses anti-inflammatory action. This dietary supplement may also help treat cuts, burns, abrasions and ulcerations. Discuss using comfrey with your physician before self-treating.
Considerations
A pelvic fracture may lead to dire health consequences if organ damage is involved. If you experience a traumatic injury in which you suffer significant pelvis pain, immediately call for emergency assistance. In most cases, dietary supplements may best be used as an adjunct therapy in the treatment of a pelvis fracture and should not be used in place of other, more conventional therapies prescribed by your family physician.
References
- Cedars-Sinai Medical Center: Pelvic Fracture
- Hospital for Special Surgery: Pelvic Fractures
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2010
- "Plant Medicine in Practice"; William A. Mitchell Jr., N.D.; 2003
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