Sacroiliac (SI) Joint Pain

Sacroiliac (SI) joint dysfunction can sometimes lead to lumbar
spine and leg pain. The SI joint is located between the sacrum
and and ilium bones in the pelvis, connecting the spine to the
hips. These bones help support and align the entire body.
Although the medical field believes that the SI joint is
responsible for those suffering from low back pain, it is often a
difficult diagnostic to make.


In this article we hope to address SI joint dysfunction and how
you may find recovery in our program.


What is SI Joint Pain?


Because the SI joints help support the weight of the entire body,
sacroiliac joint pain is often more noticeable while you are
walking or lifting heavy objects. The SI joint is supported by
strong ligaments and muscles. This keeps the joint from having a
flexible range of motion. As people begin to age, it is common
for many people to experience stiffening of the ligaments. This
can often lead to low back pain.


SI joint dysfunction often occurs when the cartilage wears down.
This can lead to the bones rubbing together, which may irritate
the sciatic nerve (located in the pelvis). If the joint is unable
to move properly or degenerates, a common symptom is chronic pain
in the lumbar spine.


In many cases, sacroiliac joint dysfunction can range between
mild to severe pain. This can depend on the health of the joint
or is caused by an injury. Acute sacroiliac joint dysfunction
typically occurs suddenly and resolves over the course of a few
days to weeks. Chronic sacroiliac joint dysfunction is
characterized by persistent bouts of pain in the pelvis, low
back, and legs that may last for more than 3 months. This pain
may persist constantly or significantly worsen during certain
activities.


Other terms for SI joint conditions include: SI joint
dysfunction, SI joint syndrome, SI joint strain, and SI joint
inflammation.


What Causes SI Joint Pain


Sacroiliac joint dysfunction is often caused by these four
things:


Traumatic injury: sudden impact on the sciatic
joint in cases of a motor accident, a fall, or sports injury can
damage the sacroiliac joints

Arthritis: degeneration of the cartilage
(osteoarthritis) or an inflammation of the spine and lumbar
joints can cause lower back pain

Pregnancy: During pregnancy the sacroiliac joints become
loose and may stretch to accommodate delivery. The added weight
of your child and altered gait may stress these joints, which may
lead to abnormal wear.



Infection: Though rare, in some cases the si joint may become
infected causing low back pain.


What Does SI Joint Pain Feel Like?


Sacroiliac joint dysfunction most commonly affects the lower back
and buttocks. However, pain may spread to the legs, groin, and
feet. It is often described as a stabbing and pinching chronic
pain. Sacroiliitis may be aggravated by:


Prolonged standing

Bearing more weight on one leg than the other

Stair climbing

Running

Taking large strides



How Do You Relieve SI Joint Pain?


Sacroiliac joint dysfunction treatment focuses on restoring joint
motion and alleviating pain. Physical therapy and movement
treatments are usually an effective and preferred method over
surgical treatments.


Initial treatments for sacroiliac joint pain typically include:



Rest: Resting for 1 to 2 days is often advised. However,
resting for a prolonged period of time may cause joint
stiffness to worsen and may increase the pain. It is best to
rest and move carefully.


Ice or Heat: Ice is a great treatment
for reducing inflammation and alleviating discomfort. Heat can
be applied around the joint in order to relieve any tension of
spasms in the surrounding muscles.


Manual manipulation: A movement specialist, physical
therapist, or other qualified health professional can help
relieve the symptoms of hypomobility. This form of treatment
seeks to reduce joint fixation and muscle tension while
restoring your range of motion.