SI Joint Dysfunction
Diagnosis & Understanding
3. Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction
1:55
4. Pseudosciatica
1:48
5. SI Joint Injection
1:49
Non-Surgical Treatment Options
1. Physical Therapy
1:35
2. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
2:08
3. Bracing
1:30
6. Regenerative Medicine
2:06
Robert Moghim MD
Anchor Healthcare
Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction
1746880256
Sacroiliac joint dysfunction, or sacroiliitis, occurs when the joints connecting the lower spine to the pelvis become inflamed or move abnormally, causing pain and stiffness. It accounts for about 30% of low back pain. These sacroiliac (SI) joints help stabilize the body and absorb impact, but if they move too much, too little, or become irritated, they can lead to discomfort affecting daily activities. Diagnosis starts with a physical exam to evaluate pain response. Imaging tests, like X-rays or MRIs, may rule out serious conditions but are rarely needed. Diagnosis relies on exam findings and diagnostic injections to confirm the sacroiliac joint as the pain source.
Various factors contribute to sacroiliac joint dysfunction. Falls, car accidents, sports injuries, pregnancy-related hormonal changes, arthritis, and aging can strain the joint. Sometimes, leg length differences or autoimmune diseases may contribute to the issue.
People often feel pain in the lower back, buttocks, or thighs, usually on one side. Pain may worsen with sitting, climbing stairs, or standing from a seated position. Some experience stiffness or instability when changing positions.
Treatment focuses on reducing pain and restoring function. Physical therapy strengthens muscles and improves flexibility, while medications reduce discomfort. Injections or radiofrequency ablation may relieve nerve irritation. Surgery is rare and considered only if other treatments fail.
Additionally, regenerative treatments like platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections may promote healing. If you’re experiencing persistent lower back or pelvic pain, early treatment can improve mobility and prevent long-term issues. Talk to our team to find the best treatment plan for you.
FAQs
Are there risks associated with untreated sacroiliac joint dysfunction?
If left untreated, sacroiliac joint dysfunction can lead to chronic pain and long-term disability. In severe cases, surgical complications may include infections or nerve damage. It's essential to seek early treatment to improve mobility and prevent these long-term issues.
How is sacroiliac joint dysfunction diagnosed?
Diagnosis of sacroiliac joint dysfunction begins with a physical exam to evaluate pain response and joint movement. Special tests, like the FABER or Gaenslen’s test, may be conducted. Imaging tests like X-rays or MRIs may be used to rule out other conditions, though they're not always necessary. Diagnostic injections can confirm the sacroiliac joint as the source of pain.
What are common symptoms of sacroiliac joint dysfunction?
Common symptoms of sacroiliac joint dysfunction include pain in the lower back, buttocks, or thighs, often on one side. This pain may worsen with activities such as sitting, stair climbing, or standing up from a seated position. Some individuals may also experience stiffness or a feeling of instability when changing positions.
What is sacroiliac joint dysfunction, and what causes it?
Sacroiliac joint dysfunction, or sacroiliitis, is a condition where the joints connecting the lower spine to the pelvis become inflamed or move abnormally, causing pain and stiffness. It can result from various factors, including trauma, pregnancy-related hormonal changes, degenerative conditions like arthritis, gait abnormalities, and inflammatory diseases.
What treatment options are available for sacroiliac joint dysfunction?
Treatment for sacroiliac joint dysfunction aims to reduce pain and restore function. Options include physical therapy to strengthen muscles and improve flexibility, medications to alleviate discomfort, and injections or radiofrequency ablation to reduce nerve irritation. Surgery is rare and considered only if other treatments prove ineffective.