Sacroiliac (SI) joint pain is a common condition that affects the lower back and hips, causing discomfort and reduced mobility. The SI joints connect the lower spine to the pelvis and when they become inflamed or irritated, they can lead to persistent pain. Understanding the causes, types and available treatments can help manage this condition effectively.
The sacroiliac joints are present on both sides of the lower spine and attach the sacrum (that triangular bone at the bottom of the spine) to the ilium (that upper part of the pelvis). The knees and hips allow for flex, serving as shock absorbers during movement, as well as providing structural stability to the lower half of the body. When these joints become inflamed or misaligned, it causes in sacroiliac joint pain.
Pain in the sacroiliac joint can be acute or chronic, unilateral or bilateral, and occur at the level of the joint or be referred from different areas. Common types include:
Possible causes of sacroiliac joint pain can include:
The symptoms of SI joint pain can vary from mild discomfort to severe pain, including:
A doctor may use various diagnostic methods to determine the cause of SI joint pain, including:
Managing SI joint pain involves a combination of therapies, medication, and sometimes surgery:
Preventive measures can help reduce the risk of developing SI joint pain:
Consult a doctor if:
In addition to medical treatments, there are several home remedies that can help manage sacroiliac joint pain and promote healing.
If left untreated, sacroiliac joint pain can severely disrupt your quality of life. But with the right combination of lifestyle modifications, medications and preventative measures, you can live well with the condition. Seeking medical care is essential if symptoms last. By doing so, you can prevent complications.
If you’re suffering from chronic sacroiliac joint pain, contact an expert today for an individualized treatment plan. Book an appointment now.
Common causes of sacroiliac joint pain include arthritis, injury, pregnancy, and the wear and tear of everyday activities.
Sacroiliac joint pain is diagnosed based on your symptoms, physical examination, and imaging tests like X-rays or MRI scans to confirm the diagnosis. Sometimes, a diagnostic injection into the joint may be done to help identify the source of pain.
Sacroiliac joint pain can cause lower back pain, hip pain, buttock pain, and pain that radiates down the leg.
Treatment options for sacroiliac joint pain may include physical therapy, corticosteroid injections, anti-inflammatory medications, and in some cases, surgery.
Sacroiliac joint pain is usually felt on one side of the lower back and buttocks, rather than in the center of the lower back like other types of lower back pain.
Yes, physical therapy can be an effective treatment for sacroiliac joint pain. A physical therapist can help you with specific exercises to strengthen and stabilize the joint, improve mobility, and reduce pain.
Risk factors for developing sacroiliac joint pain include trauma, pregnancy, arthritis, and certain inflammatory conditions.
Severe sacroiliac joint pain can potentially lead to long-term disability if not managed effectively. It's important to work with your healthcare provider to develop a treatment plan that addresses your pain and helps you maintain function.
Sacroiliac joint pain can make it difficult to walk, sit, or stand for long periods, affecting daily activities like getting in and out of a car, climbing stairs, or even sleeping comfortably.
You should consult a doctor if you have persistent sacroiliac joint pain that does not improve with self-care measures like rest, ice, or over-the-counter pain medication.