Anterior Superior Iliac Spine (ASIS) Fracture: How to Care for Your Child

An ASIS fracture is a break near the top of the pelvic bone. The most common treatment is resting the hip by using crutches.

The anterior superior iliac spine (ASIS) is a bump on the front of the pelvic bone near the hip. Several tendons connect muscles to the bone in this area. In adults, the ASIS is hardened bone. But in kids and teens who haven't finished growing, it's soft and more likely to be injured.

An ASIS fracture is a break in this area of the pelvis. This type of fracture happens most often in young athletes. A forceful movement like running, jumping, or kicking can make the muscles and tendons pull strongly on the bone, which can cause a small piece of the bone to break off.

The health care provider examined your child and asked questions about how the injury happened. An X-ray showed your child's ASIS fracture. Your child will need to rest the hip so the bone can heal. Your health care provider may also recommend physical therapy.

• Your child should use crutches as instructed and stay off the leg that's on the same side as the injured hip until the health care provider says it's OK.

• Give your child acetaminophen or ibuprofen as needed for discomfort. Follow the dosage instructions given by the health care provider.

• Apply cold packs wrapped in a towel over the injured hip for 10–15 minutes every 3–4 hours for 1–2 days while your child is awake. Do not place ice directly on the skin.

• Make a follow-up appointment with the orthopedic doctor (bone specialist) as directed.

• The pain gets worse despite pain medicine.

• Your child's hip becomes very swollen.

• Your child has severe pain that is not helped by pain medication.