SI joint dysfunction/pain

What Is SI Joint Dysfunction?

Sacroiliac (SI) joint dysfunction refers to pain caused by abnormal movement or inflammation in the sacroiliac joints two small joints that connect the sacrum (base of the spine) to the ilium (pelvic bones). These joints act as shock absorbers and help transfer weight between the upper body and legs. Dysfunction can result from too much movement (hypermobility) or too little movement (hypomobility).

Causes and Risk Factors

SI joint dysfunction may be caused by:

• Trauma (e.g., falls, car accidents)
• Repetitive stress (e.g., jogging, heavy lifting)
• Pregnancy and childbirth
• Spinal fusion surgery
• Leg length discrepancies
• Scoliosis
• Inflammatory arthritis (e.g., ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis)
• Age-related degeneration

Symptoms of SI Joint Dysfunction

• Lower back pain, often one-sided
• Pain in the buttocks, hips, or groin
• Sciatica-like pain radiating down the thighs
• Stiffness and reduced mobility
• Pain worsens with sitting, standing, climbing stairs, or turning in bed
• Feeling of instability or buckling in the pelvis

Diagnosis

Diagnosis includes:

• Physical exam with provocation tests (e.g., Gaenslen, thigh thrust)
• Imaging: X-rays, MRI, or CT scans
• Diagnostic injections: Numbing medication injected into the SI joint to confirm the source of pain

Treatment Options

1. Conservative Management

• Rest, ice, and heat therapy
• NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen)
• Physical therapy for pelvic stabilization and mobility
• SI belts to support and stabilize the joint
• Manual manipulation by chiropractors or osteopaths 

2. Interventional Treatments

• Corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation
• Radiofrequency ablation to disrupt pain signals
• Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) or biologic therapies (in select cases) 

3. Surgical Options

• Minimally invasive SI joint fusion (e.g., iFuse procedure) for chronic, unresponsive cases
• Post-operative rehab to restore function 

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Call us at (561) 433-4444 to schedule a consultation or make an appointment.
Let our experienced doctors help you relieve SI joint pain and restore your comfort and mobility.