Sacroiliac Joint Pain
Sacroiliitis and sacroiliac joint dysfunction are common causes of sacroiliac pain (SI joint pain), low back pain, and leg or hip pain. Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction is generally caused by abnormal motion in the sacroiliac joint. It typically results in inflammation of the SI joint, or sacroiliitis. Often the term sacroiliitis is used to describe any inflammation in the sacroiliac joint and can be used interchangeably with the term sacroiliac joint dysfunction, as technically either term can be used to describe pain that stems from the SI joint.
Sacroiliac Joint Pain
Treatment Options
There is a wide range of nonsurgical options available. These nonsurgical treatments include rest, heat/ice, changes in sleep position, medications, and for severe pain, SI joint injections can be recommended. The injection is done with fluoroscopic guidance, which is a type of live x-ray, to ensure correct placement of the needle in the joint. The injection typically includes both a numbing agent, such as lidocaine, and a steroid, which is a strong anti-inflammatory medication. Injections can typically be done up to three times in one year, and should be accompanied by physical therapy to restore proper range of motion. A prescribed PT program of stretching, strengthening and low impact aerobic conditioning is usually a part of most SI joint dysfunction treatment regimens.
Sacroiliac Joint Steroid Injection
Minimally Invasive Sacroiliac Joint Fusion Surgery
For severe, intractable pain that is unresponsive to nonsurgical options and interferes with the patient’s everyday life, surgery may be considered an option. SI joint fusion surgery is designed to stop the motion in the joint.
