Sacroiliac (SI) Joint Pain and Dysfunction

What is the Sacroiliac (SI) Joint?

The SI joint is a small but important joint located in your pelvis. It connects the sacrum (the triangular bone at the base of your spine) to the ilium (the upper part of your hip bone). This joint plays a crucial role in transferring the weight of your upper body to your lower limbs.

What is Sacroiliac Joint Pain and Dysfunction?

Sacroiliac joint pain or dysfunction occurs when there is irritation, inflammation, or abnormal movement within this joint. This condition can lead to discomfort and pain in your lower back, buttocks, and sometimes even radiating into the legs. SI joint pain can be chronic and bothersome, affecting your quality of life.

Causes of Sacroiliac Joint Pain:

1. Arthritis: Osteoarthritis or ankylosing spondylitis can cause degeneration of the SI joint.

2. Trauma: Injury or accidents can lead to SI joint dysfunction.

3. Pregnancy: Changes in hormones and ligament laxity during pregnancy can cause SI joint pain.

4. Infection: In rare cases, infections can affect the SI joint.

5. Abnormal Walking Patterns: Conditions that alter your gait can put extra stress on the SI joint.

Common Symptoms:

• Dull or sharp pain in the lower back, buttocks, or hips.
• Pain that may radiate down the leg, resembling sciatica.
• Stiffness or discomfort when transitioning from sitting to standing.
• Difficulty performing activities that involve the lower back and hips.

Diagnosis and Treatment:

If you suspect SI joint pain, consult with a healthcare professional like Dr. Remi Ajiboye who will typically use a combination of physical exams, imaging, and diagnostic injections to determine the cause of your pain. Treatment options may include:

1. Physical Therapy: Exercises to strengthen the muscles around the SI joint and improve joint stability.

2. Medications: Over-the-counter or prescription medications to manage pain and inflammation.

3. SI Joint Injections: Steroid injections into the joint for pain relief and to confirm the diagnosis.

4. Radiofrequency Ablation: A procedure that uses heat to disrupt pain signals from the SI joint.

5. Supportive Measures: The use of a sacroiliac joint belt to stabilize the joint.

6. Surgery: In rare cases, surgical intervention such as SI joint fusion may be considered if conservative treatments are ineffective.

Lifestyle Tips:

• Maintain a healthy weight to reduce stress on the SI joint.
• Practice good posture and body mechanics.
• Engage in regular, low-impact exercise to keep muscles around the joint strong.
• Consider activities like yoga or swimming to improve flexibility.

In Conclusion:

SI joint pain and dysfunction can be challenging, but with proper diagnosis and treatment, many individuals experience significant relief and improved quality of life. Dr. Remi Ajiboye will work with you to create a personalized plan that suits your needs.

Remember, you don't have to face this condition alone. Reach out to healthcare professionals who can provide guidance and support to help you manage your SI joint pain effectively.

Author

Remi Ajiboye MD Remi M. Ajiboye M.D. is a spine specialist who is trained in non-surgical and surgical management of spine conditions. He has advanced training in minimally-invasive spine surgery and complex spinal reconstruction.