Living with SI joint dysfunction can turn everyday routines into a series of mindful practices. Each morning, getting out of bed or putting on shoes involves slow, deliberate movements to prevent sharp pain in the lower back and hips. Even routine tasks like sitting at a desk or driving for long periods can require strategic planning, with frequent breaks for stretching and adjusting posture to avoid discomfort. With thoughtful adjustments and consistent care, you find ways to manage SI joint dysfunction while continuing to lead an active and fulfilling life.
What is Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction?
Sacroiliac joint dysfunction (SI joint dysfunction) refers to pain in the sacroiliac joint, which is located where the spine connects to the pelvis. The SI joint is crucial in transferring weight and forces between the upper and lower bodies. When the sacroiliac joint becomes inflamed or moves abnormally, it can cause significant pain and discomfort, affecting daily activities.
Symptoms of Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction
SI joint dysfunction can present a variety of symptoms that may be mistaken for other conditions, such as lower back pain or sciatica.
Common symptoms include:
Pain in your lower back, hips, buttocks, or groin
Pain that radiates down your legs
Stiffness or a burning sensation in the pelvis
Increased pain with activities such as walking, standing, or sitting for long periods
Difficulty with movements that involve twisting or bending
These symptoms can significantly impact your daily life, making it to perform routine activities, exercise, or sleep comfortably.
Treatment Options for Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction
Treatment for SI joint dysfunction often involves a combination of self-care, physical therapy, and medical interventions. Here are some standard treatment options:
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy focuses on strengthening the muscles around the sacroiliac joint to improve stability and reduce pain. A physical therapist can provide a personalized exercise program that may include:
Stretching exercises to improve flexibility
Core and lower back strengthening
Techniques to improve posture and body mechanics
Medications
Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. In some cases, your doctor may prescribe stronger medications, such as muscle relaxants or corticosteroid injections, to manage more severe pain.
Joint Injections
Injecting corticosteroids directly into the sacroiliac joint can alleviate pain by reducing inflammation. These injections, typically administered by a specialist, can offer temporary relief that lasts several weeks to months.
Radiofrequency Ablation
For patients who do not respond to other treatments, radiofrequency ablation may be an option. This procedure uses heat generated by radio waves to destroy the nerve fibers that transmit pain signals from the sacroiliac joint to the brain.
Sacroiliac Joint Fusion
In severe cases where other treatments have failed, sacroiliac joint fusion surgery may be considered. This procedure involves fusing the bones of the sacroiliac joint together to eliminate movement and provide stability, thereby reducing pain.
When to See an Orthopaedic Specialist
You should consider seeing an orthopaedic specialist if:
Your pain persists despite trying self-care measures and over-the-counter medications
You experience significant difficulty performing daily activities due to pain
Your symptoms worsen or do not improve with initial treatments
An orthopedic specialist can perform a comprehensive evaluation, including imaging tests, to accurately diagnose the cause of your pain and recommend suitable treatment options.
Why you can trust us:
We have multiple Orthopaedic Spine & Back Specialists who treat spine & back-related injuries every day.
We have the Spine and Back Institute with a team of world-recognized back specialists, orthopaedists, and therapists who have focused solely on back, neck, and spine health issues for over 15 years.
We have a whole-body health approach when it comes to orthopaedic spine, neck, and back health. The health of the entire body is connected to your back.
You experience sudden, severe pain in your lower back or pelvis
You have difficulty controlling your bladder or bowels
You experience numbness or weakness in your legs
These symptoms could indicate a more severe condition that requires immediate medical attention.
Take Action Against Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction
Don't let sacroiliac joint dysfunction continue to impact your daily life. Diagnosis and treatment can help you manage symptoms effectively and improve your quality of life. If you are experiencing persistent pain or difficulty with daily activities, schedule an appointment with an orthopaedic specialist today.
This blog post is meant to be informative and should not act as a self-diagnosis tool. If you’d like to see one of our doctors, please contact us here.
