SI Joint Pain (Sacroiliitis): Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options

Table of Contents

SI Joint Pain Causes
Sacroiliac Joint Pain Symptoms
Diagnosis
SI Joint Pain Treatment
FAQ

How to sit with SI joint pain?
How to sleep with SI joint pain?
Is walking good for sacroiliac joint pain?
Sacroiliac joint pain exercises to avoid?

The sacroiliac (SI) joint is a joint that connects the lower spine to the pelvis. It is located on each side of the lower back, where the sacrum (the triangular bone at the base of the spine) meets the ilium (the upper part of the hip bone). The SI joint helps to support the weight of the upper body and to absorb shock from movements such as walking, running, or jumping.

SI Joint Pain Causes

The SI joint can become painful due to various reasons, such as injury, inflammation, arthritis, or pregnancy. This condition is known as SI joint pain, or sacroiliitis. SI joint pain can affect people of any age, gender, or activity level, but it is more common in women, especially during or after pregnancy. SI joint pain can also be associated with other conditions that affect the spine, such as ankylosing spondylitis, a type of inflammatory arthritis.

Sacroiliac Joint Pain Symptoms

The most common symptom of SI joint pain is a dull ache or sharp pain in the lower back or buttocks, often on one side. Pain can also radiate down the leg, mimicking sciatica. Other SI joint pain symptoms include:

Stiffness or reduced mobility in the lower back or hips
Difficulty standing, sitting, walking, climbing stairs, or bending
Pain that worsens with certain movements, such as twisting, turning, or lifting
Pain that radiates down the legs, sometimes reaching the feet
Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the legs or feet

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of SI joint pain can be challenging, as the symptoms can mimic other causes of lower back pain, such as disc herniation, sciatica, or lumbar spine arthritis. To diagnose SI joint pain, the doctor will perform a physical examination, ask about the medical history and the onset and duration of the pain, and order some tests, such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scan, to rule out other possible causes. The doctor may also perform a diagnostic injection, which involves injecting a local anesthetic and a steroid into the SI joint to see if the pain is relieved.

SI Joint Pain Treatment

The treatment of SI joint pain depends on the cause, severity, and duration of the pain, as well as the individual's preferences and goals. The SI joint pain treatment options may include:

Medications
Physical therapy
Injections
Chiropractic
Surgery

Medications: The doctor may prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen or naproxen, to reduce the inflammation and pain in the SI joint. In some cases, the doctor may also prescribe muscle relaxants, nerve pain medications, or opioids for short-term pain relief.

Physical therapy: A physical therapist can design a personalized exercise program to strengthen the muscles that support the SI joint, improve the flexibility and mobility of the joint, and correct the posture and alignment of the spine and pelvis. Physical therapy can also include modalities such as heat, ice, ultrasound, or electrical stimulation to ease the pain and inflammation.

Injections: The doctor may perform a therapeutic injection, which involves injecting a steroid and a local anesthetic into the SI joint to reduce the inflammation and pain for several weeks or months. The injection can also help to confirm the diagnosis of SI joint pain if the pain is relieved after the injection.

Chiropractic: A chiropractor can perform manual adjustments or manipulations to the SI joint, spine, or pelvis to restore the normal function and alignment of the joint and to relieve the pressure and pain. Chiropractic can also include other techniques, such as massage, acupuncture, or traction, to enhance the effects of the adjustment.

Surgery: If the conservative treatments fail to provide adequate pain relief or if the SI joint is severely damaged or unstable, the doctor may recommend surgery. The most common type of surgery for SI joint pain is SI joint fusion, which involves fusing the bones of the SI joint together with screws, plates, or implants to prevent the joint from moving and causing pain.

Lower back brace, also known as sacroiliac (SI) joint belt, is a device that can help people with SI joint pain by providing support, stability, and compression to the affected area.

A lower back brace can help to reduce the pressure and inflammation in the SI joint, which can ease the pain and discomfort. It can also prevent the SI joint from moving excessively, which can worsen the condition or cause further damage. A lower back brace can be worn during the day or at night, depending on the severity of the symptoms and the doctor's advice.

There are different types and brands of lower back brace available on the market. Lower Back Brace from Zofore Sport can help with SI joint pain by providing support, stability, and compression to the affected area. It can also reduce the inflammation and pressure on the SI joint, which can ease the pain and discomfort.

SI joint pain can be a debilitating condition that affects the quality of life and daily activities of the affected individuals. However, with proper diagnosis and treatment, SI joint pain can be managed and improved. If you are experiencing SI joint pain, consult your doctor for the best treatment option for your condition.

FAQ

How to sit with SI joint pain?

To sit comfortably with SI joint pain, opt for a chair with good lumbar support to maintain proper posture. Sit with your feet flat on the floor and avoid crossing your legs to prevent added strain on the SI joint. Taking frequent breaks to stand, stretch, or walk around can also alleviate discomfort associated with prolonged sitting.

How to sleep with SI joint pain?

To sleep comfortably with SI joint pain, try sleeping on your side with a pillow between your knees to align your spine. Alternatively, lie on your back with a pillow under your knees to reduce pressure on the SI joint. Experiment with different sleeping positions and consider using additional support, such as a body pillow, to find what works best for your comfort and pain relief.

Is walking good for sacroiliac joint pain?

Yes, walking is generally beneficial for sacroiliac joint pain as it promotes gentle movement and improves circulation without placing excessive strain on the joints. However, it's essential to maintain proper posture and wear supportive footwear to minimize discomfort. Start with shorter walks and gradually increase duration and intensity as tolerated, listening to your body's cues to avoid overexertion.

Sacroiliac joint pain exercises to avoid?

Avoid exercises that involve heavy impact or twisting motions, such as high-impact aerobics, running on hard surfaces, or intense twisting movements. Additionally, exercises that place excessive strain on the SI joint, such as deep squats or leg presses with heavy weights, should be approached with caution or avoided altogether. Listen to your body and consult with a healthcare professional or physical therapist before engaging in any exercise regimen to ensure it's safe and appropriate for your condition.

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