Sacroiliac joint dysfunction is a condition that causes sacroiliac (SI) joint pain in the lower back and buttocks. SI joint pain occurs when damage or injury is made to the joint between the spine and hip. Learn more about the main causes of sacroiliac joint dysfunction, common symptoms, and nonsurgical and surgical treatments available by Dr. Jacob Rozbruch to alleviate SI joint pain.
What Is Sacroiliac Joint Pain?
SI joint pain can cause a dull ache or sharp pain in your lower back and can transfer to your thighs, buttocks, groin, or upper back. Discomfort can be felt on one side or both sides of the back.
The pain starts when your SI joint is inflamed, which can be triggered by physical activity, trauma, falls, multiple pregnancies, or misalignment of the legs. Conditions like gout, psoriasis, and rheumatoid arthritis can be leading factors as well.
What Parts Of The Spine Are Affected?
The SI joint is located within the pelvis and can be found where the hips meet the spine. The SI joints have limited flexibility—they are held in place by many strong ligaments—but can move slightly by a couple of millimeters from tilting, sliding, or rotating. If the ligaments or joints are damaged, fractured, or injured, it can impact the stability of the pelvis.
What Treatments Are Available?
There are both invasive and noninvasive treatments available to treat SI joint pain. If you’re experiencing a mild case of SI joint pain, Dr. Rozbruch may treat the condition with anti-inflammatories that can ease away discomfort and inflammation or a customized sacroiliac joint belt may be advised to immobilize the SI joints. Physical therapy is another form of treatment to help SI joint pain; special exercises and stretches can help strengthen the muscles of your lower back and reduce inflammation. SI joint injections can also be administered to lubricate the SI joints and diminish the pain experienced. If nonsurgical treatments are not effective, sacroiliac joint dysfunction surgery can alleviate the discomfort. Surgery can help stabilize the SI joint. Treatment will vary depending on the cause of your pain.
Dr. Jacob Rozbruch and our staff welcome any questions you may have regarding SI joint pain. Contact our office at 212-744-9857, or request an appointment online today for your personal consultation!
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