Abnormal movement at the joints of the pelvis causing pain and difficulty with weight-bearing activities. Assessment includes evaluation of the hip, pelvis and lumbar spine together.
(03) 9573 9659
Pelvic instability refers to abnormal movement at the joints of the pelvis, causing pain and difficulty with weight-bearing activities. It requires careful assessment to distinguish from other causes of hip and groin pain, as multiple conditions in this region can produce similar symptoms.
Pelvic instability can occur following pregnancy, pelvic trauma, or in the context of underlying hip or spinal pathology. The pelvis relies on a combination of bony architecture, ligamentous support and muscle activation for stability. When any of these elements is compromised, abnormal movement at the pelvic joints can result in pain and functional difficulty.
Pain in the groin, lower back, buttocks or inner thigh, which is often worse with single-leg activities, climbing stairs, rolling over in bed or prolonged standing and walking. There may be an audible or palpable click from the pelvis with certain movements.
Pelvic pain has many potential causes including hip joint pathology, lumbar spine conditions, pubic symphysis dysfunction and soft tissue injuries. Mr Balakumar evaluates the hip and pelvis comprehensively to identify the specific source of symptoms. Imaging including X-rays and MRI is used to assess the pelvis, sacroiliac joints and hip joints, and a referral to a spinal specialist or physiotherapist may be arranged where appropriate.
Most patients with pelvic instability are managed non-surgically through physiotherapy focused on pelvic and core stabilisation, load management and gradual return to activity. Surgical intervention is uncommon and is reserved for specific cases with clear structural instability that has not responded to a sustained course of conservative management.
(03) 9573 9659
Mr Balakumar is one of a small number of surgeons in Australia with formal training in both paediatric and adult hip surgery. His fellowship at Harvard’s Children’s Hospital in Boston, under some of the world’s leading specialists in hip preservation, gives him a depth of expertise that is difficult to find in a single practice.
His approach is the same whether the patient is 6 months or 65 years old – thorough assessment, honest options, and no pressure toward surgery until the clinical picture clearly supports it.
(03) 9573 9659
A common cause of lateral hip pain, ranging from tendon degeneration through to partial or full-thickness tears. Treatment depends on severity and includes physiotherapy, injection and in some cases surgical repair.
Hip and groin injuries in athletes range from labral tears and adductor strains through to stress fractures. Accurate diagnosis is essential as many conditions in this region can mimic each other.
Progressive loss of cartilage within the hip joint causing pain, stiffness and reduced function. At least 80 per cent of hip osteoarthritis has a structural cause that can be identified and, in suitable patients, addressed.
Inflammation at the pubic symphysis causing groin and lower abdominal pain, commonly seen in athletes. Frequently associated with underlying hip pathology that requires assessment alongside the pubic joint.
Melbourne Orthopaedic Group is home to a team of experienced orthopaedic surgeons, providing comprehensive care for sports injuries and orthopaedic conditions. Whether it’s joint replacement or sports injuries, our specialists provide comprehensive orthopaedic care.
