Sacroiliac (SI) joint dysfunction occurs when the sacroiliac joints—located where your spine meets your pelvis—don’t move properly. These joints act as shock absorbers, transferring weight and forces between your upper body and legs. When they’re not functioning as they should, it can cause pain and discomfort in your lower back, buttocks, or even your legs.

 

What Causes SI Joint Dysfunction?

SI joint dysfunction can result from too much or too little movement in the joint:

  1. Hypermobility (Too Much Movement):
    • Often caused by ligament laxity (e.g., during pregnancy or from injury).
    • Leads to instability and pain.

 

  1. Hypomobility (Too Little Movement):
    • Stiffness from conditions like arthritis, previous injury, or sacroiliitis (inflammation of the SI joint).
    • Restricts motion and causes discomfort.

 

  1. Other Causes:
    • Trauma, such as falls or car accidents.
    • Prolonged uneven weight distribution (e.g., from a leg length discrepancy or scoliosis).
    • Overuse from repetitive movements or heavy lifting.

 

Symptoms of SI Joint Dysfunction

  • Pain:
    • Located in the lower back, buttocks, or pelvis.
    • Sometimes radiates to the thighs, mimicking sciatica.
  • Stiffness: Difficulty with activities like standing up, walking, or climbing stairs.
  • Tenderness: Soreness over the joint area.
  • Worsened by Specific Activities: Pain may flare up during prolonged sitting, standing, or twisting motions.

 

Diagnosis

Diagnosis involves:

  • Physical Exam: To assess pain location, mobility, and joint function.
  • Imaging Tests: X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans may rule out other conditions.
  • Diagnostic Injections: Injecting anesthetic into the SI joint can confirm the source of pain.

 

Treatment Options

Treatment focuses on relieving pain, improving mobility, and addressing the underlying cause:

  1. Non-Surgical Treatments:
    • Physical Therapy: Exercises to strengthen the core and stabilize the SI joint.
    • Medications: Anti-inflammatories or muscle relaxers for symptom relief.
    • SI Joint Injections: Corticosteroids to reduce inflammation.
    • Lifestyle Modifications: Avoiding activities that aggravate symptoms and using supportive footwear.

 

  1. Surgical Options:
    • For severe, persistent cases, SI joint fusion may be recommended to stabilize the joint.

 

Why It Matters

SI joint dysfunction can be a literal pain in the butt—affecting your ability to sit, stand, or move comfortably. The good news? With proper care, most people find significant relief and regain their mobility.

If your lower back or pelvis is giving you trouble, we’re here to help pinpoint the issue and get you back to doing what you love—pain-free!