Sacroiliac Joint Pain

Your sacroiliac joint consists of the sacrum, the triangular bone at the bottom of your spine, and your ilium, the crest of the pelvic bone. These two joints meet to connect your spine to your pelvic bone. Sacroiliac joint dysfunction occurs when either your sacrum or ilium function abnormally. This condition can lead to debilitating pain, which is why it’s commonly referred to as SI joint pain.

At Goshen Orthopedics, we provide complete Orthopedics care for SI joint pain. With advanced, on location imaging services and diverse treatment options, we can get you the right diagnosis and care you need. Call (574) 534-2548 for an appointment.

Symptoms of sacroiliac joint dysfunction

Pain in the lower back, hips and legs is the most common symptom. Along with pain, you may experience:

• Muscle stiffness
• Leg numbness, tingling and weakness
• Pain that worsens with prolonged sitting, walking, bending or standing

The symptoms of sacroiliac joint dysfunction can be similar to symptoms of sciatica, disc disorders and other back and spine conditions.

Sacroiliac joint dysfunction causes

Arthritis, fractures and overuse injuries are just a few causes of SI joint pain.

Other causes include:

• Uneven pelvic bone position
• Hormonal changes during menstruation and pregnancy
• Fractures
• Muscle imbalance
• Too much or too little movement

Sacroiliac joint dysfunction is more common in women and accounts for up to 25 percent of lower back complaints.

Relieving SI joint pain at Goshen Orthopedics

Before beginning treatment, your provider needs to know exactly what’s causing your pain. He or she will perform a thorough assessment and collaborate with other specialists to develop a plan that works just for you. Often, noninvasive treatment options work best to relieve SI joint dysfunction.

These nonsurgical treatment methods may include:

• Medication
• Physical therapy
• Injections
• Resting and icing the affected area
• Using a heating pad
• Massage
• Bracing

Your provider may recommend surgery if alternative treatment methods haven’t worked for you.