SI Joint Pain

Overview

SI joint pain, localized around the sacroiliac joint, can radiate to the hips or thighs, impacting mobility and daily activities.

Accurate diagnosis is essential for tailoring interventions, which may include physical therapy, SI joint injections, and lifestyle modifications to alleviate pain and improve joint function.

Symptoms & Causes

The SI joints, located at the base of the spine where the sacrum meets the iliac bones, play a crucial role in transferring weight and forces between your upper body and legs. When these joints become a source of pain, it can lead to a range of symptoms. The overview of SI joint pain involves understanding that discomfort can manifest as aching, sharp pain, or a feeling of instability in the lower back, buttocks, or thighs.

Symptoms often worsen with prolonged sitting, standing, or walking, and individuals with SI joint pain may experience stiffness or a sensation of one leg being shorter than the other. The causes of SI joint pain are diverse, encompassing both mechanical and inflammatory factors. Trauma, such as a fall or car accident, can disrupt the normal function of the SI joint, leading to pain. Additionally, conditions like arthritis, pregnancy-related changes, or anatomic irregularities can contribute to SI joint dysfunction and discomfort.

Understanding the interplay of these factors is crucial in addressing SI joint pain effectively. By recognizing the symptoms and identifying the underlying causes, our Pain Clinic is dedicated to developing tailored solutions for your unique situation.

Diagnosis & Treatments

Diagnosing SI joint pain involves a meticulous examination of symptoms, medical history, and physical assessments. Our healthcare professionals will explore the location and nature of your pain, inquire about activities that exacerbate or alleviate symptoms, and may perform specific maneuvers to elicit tenderness in the SI joint region.

Once diagnosed, the treatment approach for SI joint pain is aimed at managing symptoms, addressing the underlying causes, and improving overall quality of life. Non-surgical interventions are often the first line of defense and may include medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or muscle relaxants to alleviate pain and inflammation.

Physical therapy plays a pivotal role in managing SI joint pain, focusing on exercises that enhance the stability and flexibility of the pelvic region. Our healthcare professionals collaborate closely with individuals to create personalized exercise regimens that address specific symptoms and improve daily function.

In cases where conservative measures do not provide sufficient relief, our Pain Clinic may consider interventional procedures to target the SI joint directly. Corticosteroid injections into the SI joint can provide temporary relief by reducing inflammation, and these injections may be performed under imaging guidance for precision.

Preparing for your appointment at our Pain Clinic involves open communication with our healthcare team. Discussing your medical history, providing detailed information about your symptoms, and expressing any concerns you may have are vital steps in the diagnostic and treatment process. Our team will guide you through a thorough examination and discuss the most appropriate treatment options tailored to your specific needs.

In cases where symptoms persist and significantly impact daily life, surgical options may be considered. Fusion of the SI joint, where the joint surfaces are permanently joined, is a potential surgical intervention aimed at stabilizing the joint and alleviating pain.

Rehabilitation is a crucial aspect of managing SI joint pain, focusing on restoring function and improving quality of life. Our healthcare professionals may recommend ongoing physical therapy, pain management strategies, and psychological support to help individuals cope with the impact of persistent pain on their daily lives.

SI joint pain may present significant challenges, but with comprehensive care and a personalized treatment approach, individuals can find relief and regain control over their lives. By understanding the symptoms, causes, and embracing a multidisciplinary diagnostic and treatment approach, our Pain Clinic is committed to guiding you towards a life with less pain and more possibilities, even in the face of SI joint discomfort.