Sacroiliac Joint Pain

What Is Sacroiliac Joint Pain?

The sacroiliac (SI) joint is a large, weight-bearing joint that connects the sacrum (the triangular bone at the base of the spine) to the iliac bones of the pelvis. This joint plays a crucial role in stabilizing the pelvis and transferring the weight of the upper body to the legs. Because of its function, the SI joint is under constant stress, making it susceptible to wear and tear, inflammation, and dysfunction over time.

As people age, the SI joint can begin to fuse naturally, leading to stiffness and discomfort. Some individuals develop arthritis in this joint, which can cause chronic pain. SI joint pain typically presents as lower back and buttock pain and can sometimes radiate to the hips, groin, or thighs. While it usually does not extend below the knee, in rare cases, it may.

Another common condition associated with SI joint dysfunction is bursitis, which refers to inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs that cushion the joints. When pain alters the body’s movement patterns, it can place stress on different areas, leading to bursitis. This pain can be quite severe and may radiate from the front or back of the hips down the legs.

Symptoms of Sacroiliac Joint Pain

SI joint pain can mimic other conditions, making diagnosis challenging. Some common symptoms include:

Pain in the lower back, buttocks, hips, or thighs
Stiffness and reduced mobility in the pelvis and lower back
Pain that worsens with prolonged sitting, standing, or certain movements
Pain that improves when lying down or changing positions
Discomfort while climbing stairs, getting out of a chair, or walking on uneven surfaces

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek medical evaluation to determine if the SI joint is the source of your pain.

Treatment Options for Sacroiliac Joint Pain

SI joint pain can be managed through a variety of treatments, ranging from conservative therapies to advanced interventional procedures.

1. Diagnostic SI Joint Injection

One of the most common diagnostic and therapeutic procedures for SI joint pain is an SI joint injection. During this procedure:

A pain specialist injects a combination of local anesthetic and anti-inflammatory medication directly into the joint.
The injection is guided by fluoroscopy (X-ray imaging) to ensure accuracy.
If the patient experiences significant pain relief, this confirms that the SI joint is the primary source of discomfort.

For many individuals, SI joint injections provide substantial relief. However, if the pain returns, additional treatments may be needed.

2. Physical Therapy and Active Release Techniques

A structured physical therapy program can help strengthen the muscles supporting the SI joint, improve flexibility, and restore proper movement patterns. Active release techniques (ART) involve hands-on manipulation of soft tissues to reduce tension and enhance mobility.

3. Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)

If SI joint injections provide temporary relief, a procedure called radiofrequency ablation (RFA) may be an option. This involves:

Using heat to cauterize and disrupt nerve signals responsible for pain.
Targeting the posterior SI joint nerves, which are the most common source of pain.
Offering long-term relief, with results typically lasting about a year before nerves regenerate.

4. Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS)

If pain persists and is suspected to originate from the anterior nerves of the SI joint (which are difficult to target with injections), a spinal cord stimulator (SCS) may be recommended. This device sends mild electrical impulses to the spinal cord, altering pain signals before they reach the brain.

5. Minimally Invasive SI Joint Fusion

For patients with severe or persistent SI joint dysfunction that does not respond to other treatments, SI joint fusion may be considered. This minimally invasive surgical procedure stabilizes the joint by inserting small implants, reducing movement and relieving pain. Louisiana Pain Specialists offers advanced SI joint fusion procedures for patients who have exhausted other treatment options.

Louisiana Pain Specialists Offers Relief From Sacroiliac Joint Pain

SI joint pain can be debilitating, but effective treatments are available. Whether you need diagnostic injections, physical therapy, radiofrequency ablation, or a minimally invasive SI joint fusion, Louisiana Pain Specialists is here to help. Call us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward lasting pain relief.