SI Joint Dysfunction

SI Joint Dysfunction (Sacroiliitis)

Pain in the sacroiliac joint region makes up 15-20% of all lower back pain cases. The sacroiliac joint, the largest joint in the body, connects the tailbone, or sacrum, to the hip bone. SI joint dysfunction, also known as sacroiliitis, occurs when there is stiffness or hypermobility in the joint.

Causes of SI Joint Dysfunction

There are two sacroiliac joints, located on either side of the sacrum. They function as shock absorbers for the pelvis and lower back. If an SI joint becomes irritated, pain can result in the lower back and legs. Common causes of SI joint dysfunction include:

  • Favoring one leg
  • Disruption of the joint lining
  • Ligament injury
  • Shearing forces
  • Cysts
  • Arthritis
  • Trauma
  • Infection
  • Fractures
  • Myofascial pain
  • Pregnancy
  • Enthesopathy
  • Prior surgeries

Symptoms

SI joint dysfunction is often mistaken for lower back pain or a herniated disc and is therefore often overlooked or misdiagnosed. However, common symptoms include:

01

Pain worsens after extended periods of standing or walking

02

Pain improves with sitting or lying down

03

Pain improved with walking or standing

04

Tightness in the SI joint region

05

Achiness

06

Pain radiates into the knee, legs, buttocks, or groin

07

Sharp sciatica-like pain

08

Tenderness

09

Stiffness

010

Pain intensifies when running or climbing stairs

Diagnosis

In diagnosing SI joint dysfunction, a physician will review your medical history and conduct a thorough physical examination. Additionally, your health care provider may order the following tests:

• Anesthetic injections
• CT scan
• MRI
• X-rays

Possible Treatments

At the outset, treatment for SI joint dysfunction may include OTC and prescription NSAID medications may to reduce irritation and swelling and to control the pain. Physical therapy is another common conservative treatment option, and that may include massage, soft tissue release, flexibility and strengthening exercises, body mechanics, the use of braces, and hot and cold treatments.

Other treatment options for SI joint dysfunction include:

Sacroiliac Joint Block
Neurolysis and Ablation
Sacroiliac Fusion/Stabilization
Electrical stimulation
Radio frequency denervation
Dr.Raju Mantena
Dr. Raju Mantena is an anesthesiologist and pain specialist based in the Houston area and has over 15 years of medical experience which he relies upon each day to successfully treat his patients’ acute and chronic pain.
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